City hears feedback on activation for Capitol Hills problem parks and reopening Seven Hills

Seattle Parks officials are preparing a report for Mayor Bruce Harrell, expected by early December, which will address the reopening of Seven Hills Park and plans to enhance safety and activity across Capitol Hill parks. The Garfield Community Center hosted a well-attended meeting where residents expressed concerns over safety issues linked to homeless encampments, with some recounting distressing experiences. Attendees proposed various solutions, such as increased maintenance, the formation of volunteer groups, and even replacing contaminated soil in Seven Hills Park. A strong opposition to permanent fencing was evident among participants, who collectively voiced that such measures would not be welcome. The Seattle Police Department was present to address safety concerns and encouraged residents to reach out to the Crime Prevention Coordinator for assistance.

Parks officials noted that some decisions, like the fencing, were made at higher administrative levels. The city plans to explore partnerships with local businesses and organizations to foster community engagement and programming. Previous successes in similar initiatives, such as those at Cal Anderson Park, serve as a model for improving conditions in these challenged public spaces.