Be'er Sheva Park Improvements
Updated: April 9, 2026
Spring 2026
Together with the community we celebrated the first phase of this in project in April 2024. There are many improvements at the park that came out of the community engagement and were tagged to be built in future phases. Seattle Parks and Recreation is working hard to move the improvements below forward within the current budget while advocating for additional funding to build out all the amenities.
Design currently underway is outlined below:
- Play Area Renovation - Renovate the existing play area, enhance accessibility, and install new equipment for ages 2-5 and 5-12
- Fitness Zone - Install a fitness zone with exercise equipment and an accessible walking path loop.
- Court Renovation – Renovation of the existing basketball court to enhance accessibility and install an all-weather basketball court shelter with lighting that can be used year-round.
Location
Be'er Sheva Park, 8650 55th Ave S, 98118
Budget
$2.8 million
Funding Sources:
- Seattle Park District
- Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grant administered through the State of Washington Recreation and Conservation Board
- Park CommUNITY Fund
- King County Parks Capital & Open Space Levy Grant
- Department of Neighborhoods – Neighborhood Matching Fund
Schedule
• Planning and Design: Spring 2024 - Late 2025
• Construction: 2026-2027
• Construction: To be determined
Project Description
Upland Work: The upland work included improved waterfront access, new walkways and lighting, picnic tables, barbeques, a covered picnic pavilion, a fitness area, an outdoor cultural stage, and more! The Be’er Sheva Park Upland project was completed on January 31, 2024. Over 300 people came out to celebrate, explore the renovation, and visit with their neighbors! Learn more about the story behind the artwork in the park here.
In-Water Work: The “In-Water” work was completed in late 2024 and provides habitat enhancement for the Be’er Sheva Park shoreline.
Upland Work Phase II: The second phase of upland work includes a play area renovation and installation of a fitness zone. The existing play area will be renovated to meet SPR standards, enhance accessibility, and include new equipment for ages 2-5 and ages 5-12. A fitness zone with exercise equipment and an accessible, lit walking path loop will be installed in the park.
Upland Work Phase III: The third phase of upland work primarily includes resurfacing the basketball court and replacing any damaged or missing equipment. If the project receives additional funding through grants, it will have sufficient funds for a larger court cover, an accessible pathway to the Urban Farm and Wetland, and to repair the cultural stage shelter.
Anticipated Impact: Specific areas of the park will be closed during construction.
Community Participation
Please watch this page for future opportunities to participate in the engagement process. Thank you to everyone who has participated to date.
Rainier Beach Link to Lake Website
South Seattle Emerald Article