Seattle intends to revamp its waterfront parks network in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Seattle is making a push to restore and connect its Elliot Bay waterfront parks in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The project will be undertaken without cost to taxpayers, funded entirely by philanthropy

The project, “Elliott Bay Connections advances our decades-long efforts to reconnect the city to the waterfront, ensuring a seamless transition from downtown and safe, accessible pathways to experience the natural beauty of our region,” said Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell. “This public-philanthropic approach is a shining example of bold Space Needle Thinking and a One Seattle effort, and we are so grateful to these donors for their commitment to help make Seattle’s waterfront a vibrant, world-class destination.”

Administrators intend to build a nearly mile-long greenway for pedestrians and cyclists along the east side of Alaskan Way from Waterfront Park at Pier 62 to the Olympic Sculpture Park. The greenway has been planned as an update to existing sidewalks, replacing obsolete former trolley tracks with an accessible path designed for walkers and those using scooters, wheelchairs or bicycles. It will complement the ongoing construction of a protected bike lane on the west side of Alaskan Way.

The project is being funded by Melinda French Gates and MacKenzie Scott, The Diller-Von Furstenberg Family Foundation, and the Expedia Group.

“Elliott Bay Connections gives us a once-in-a-generation chance to finish the job on our waterfront,” said Port of Seattle Commission President Sam Cho in a statement. “Partnership is playing a critical role in launching the Waterfront Park project to the south. Partnership is critical for finishing the job on the north end. We are really eager to hear community feedback on these proposals and begin building a waterfront for the next generation.”

Community engagement will kick off in the fall, with the public invited to give input on the proposed greenway and desired park improvements. Following public input, design concepts will be developed and presented to the public before actual design, permitting and construction proceed. The donors will provide funding for a decade to support stewardship once the project is done, in collaboration with the city and port of Seattle.

“Having lived in Seattle for more than three decades, I know we thrive on being so close to nature,” said Melinda French Gates. “Public parks connect us to green space and water, but they also connect us to each other. This network of waterfront parks will be a shared space for everyone and bring our city together. I am grateful for the partnership with MacKenzie Scott, The Diller-Von Furstenberg Family Foundation and Expedia Group, the leaders of the City and Port, and the public as we work to bring Elliott Bay Connections to life.”

The proposed project will include lush, open public spaces at the new Waterfront Park, which is slated to open in 2025, nine acres of the Olympic Sculpture Park, 16 acres combined acres of Myrtle Edwards and Centennial parks, and The Beach, which features two-and-a-half acres of native plantings, drift wood, and seating areas. Waterfront Park will be linked by a pedestrian promenade to Pike Place Market and the Seattle Aquarium’s new Ocean Pavilion, which is opening in 2024. The proposed greenway from Waterfront Park to the Olympic Sculpture Park will total more than two and a half acres.

The Downtown Seattle Association will serve as the implementation partner for the Elliott Bay Connections project, according to the statement.

“Seattle’s extensive and historic park network is our biggest strength. Elliott Bay Connections will allow Seattle to showcase our new Waterfront Park, creating green access to downtown and addressing gaps in the pedestrian infrastructure. Seattle Parks Foundation is thrilled to see this vision come to life and we look forward to partnering with the city and community to ensure its success,” said Rebecca Bear, president and CEO of the Seattle Parks Foundation.