What do you see for the Judkins community?
About the Project
The Judkins Park Renovation Project is a collaborative effort to revitalize one of Seattle’s most historic community spaces. In partnership with Seattle Parks and Recreation, the William Grose Center, and community organizations, this project will bring much-needed updates to the park’s play areas, restrooms, pathways, and accessibility features—ensuring it remains a welcoming and inclusive space for all.
Youth-Led Engagement Event
Tuesday, February 25 | 3 - 6 PM | William Grose Center | 101 23rd Ave. S
Seattle, WA 98144
Community Engagement Event
Thursday, February 27 | 3:30 - 7PM | Washington Middle School | 2101 South Jackson St.
Seattle, WA 98144
Can’t attend the in-person events? No problem.
Can’t make it to any of the in-person engagement events? Provide 24/ 7 feedback and input through our community portal designed with your thoughts in mind. Click here to take the survey and reimagine the future of Judkins Park.
Share your vision for the future of Judkins Park!
“The neighborhood is the family.”
This Haitian proverb speaks to a truth that has long anchored Black communities across the diaspora.
Judkins Park has stood as one of those places: a gathering ground where elders share wisdom, youth from the community chase their dreams, and generations come together in celebration and solidarity. From the beautiful beginnings of the Black Community Festival to the rhythms of Umoja Fest, Judkins is more than a mere park or plot of land in a neighborhood—it has been a keeper of our stories, our struggles, and our joy.
As time reshapes our city, we are committed to ensuring that Judkins remains a space where the neighborhood, our chosen family, can continue to thrive.
Your voice, your memories, and your vision are essential in shaping its future—because a park, like a family, is strongest when all its members have a say in its care.
The late Dr. Maxine Mimms & Dr. Joye Hardiman at UmojaFest 2023, Judkins Park
Judkins Park Memories
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Mary Jackson, Community Member
“I remember my first Black Community Festival at Judkins. All of my friends were there and it felt like one big family reunion. We have so many memories at this park and I am so excited to help future generations build upon the memories we have already made.”
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Jon Stoll, Community Member
“My father always brought me to Judkins when I was a kid. It’s where I first learned to ride a bike and where I taught my son to do the same. Judkins is not just a part of the fabric of this community, it’s a part of the fabric of our lives.”
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Gwendolyn Polk, Community Member
“Judkins is not just a part of the fabric of this community, it’s a part of the fabric of our lives.”
COMMUNITY.
LEGACY.
HISTORY.
Reimagine the future of Judkins Park from the comfort of home.
Your voice matters.
Partners
Frequently Asked Questions
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Planned renovations include:
Upgraded play areas with inclusive design
Restroom renovations to meet accessibility standards
Expanded sensory nature play area (pending funding)
Enhancements to pathways for better accessibility and connectivity
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Youth from the William Grose Center are actively participating in the design process through coding, 3D modeling, and community engagement efforts to ensure the park reflects the needs of local residents.
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The total project budget is $2.32 million, funded through Seattle’s Parks and Green Spaces Levy and additional grants. Further fundraising efforts are underway to expand the project’s scope.
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The project is a collaboration between Seattle Parks and Recreation, Africatown Community Land Trust, the William Grose Center, Inclusion Matters, No More Under, and A Personal Point of View LLC.
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The planning phase began in 2024, with design work continuing into early 2025. Construction is scheduled to start in 2026.
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Community engagement events will be held throughout the planning process. You can attend our upcoming events:
Youth Engagement Event: February 25, 2024 (3-6 PM) at the William Grose Center
Community Engagement Event: February 27, 2024 (4:30-7 PM) at Washington Middle School
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Judkins Park has a rich history and is a central gathering space for the community. These renovations aim to enhance accessibility, safety, and inclusivity while preserving its cultural significance.