In August of last year, SW neighbors celebrated the opening of the first stages of a “Walking Park” through our neighborhood. An energetic group of about 50 neighbors worked together to create four attractive destination spots…walking from one to another of these is what makes this a “Walking Park.” The “Walking Park” takes shape as you meander from destination spot to destination spot. Start at one or another spot and make your own “Walking Park” this spring!
- #1 Spot - Welcome Park. This is an entrance to our neighborhood, at 9th & Fern. Its a busy corner, softened by flowering plants and brightened by the oyster shell path. You can watch the sunset in the west from the concrete bench, visit with neighbors heading to the bus, or home.
- #2 Spot - Poetry Post. This is a longer walk or bike ride down Decatur Street past the trees, toward Percival Creek. Once there, you can read the poems, or write your own (there should be pencil and paper) and hang it on the beaded hooks you’ll find there. Continue on to the Courthouse, or SPSCC. Or you can go back to 15th Avenue and find your way down to Percival Creek and then across the trestle at Marathon Park to downtown!
- #3 Spot - Caton Garden. On 9th Avenue, east of Decatur, follow the footsteps to the end of Caton Way. Pull some weeds or just take a minute to rest on the bench and breathe our fresh, clean air.
- #4 Spot - Rainier View Bench. You find yourself walking down 4th toward town. Why not turn left into “West Bay Drive” (yes, that’s what it’s called there) and then right again on Midway. At the end of the strip of concrete you’ll see a set of solar-lighted steps leading up to a bench. If you have a clear day, Mt. Rainier will be out. And if you’re an early morning walker, maybe you’ll see the sunrise over the mountain.
