Rainier Beach Playfield Skatepark

Summer 2023

Determination of Non-Significance (DNS)

Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) is proposing to construct a 23,600 sq.ft. concrete skateboard park with street terrain at one end and bowls at the other end. Existing paths to the play area, restroom, and parking lot will be redesigned and constructed to conform with ADA regulations. SPR has determined that it does not have probable significant adverse impact on the environment. An environmental impact statement is not required under RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c). This decision was made after review of a completed environmental checklist and other information on file with SPR. This information is available to the public on request.

This DNS is issued under 197-11-340(2); SPR will not act on this proposal for 14 days from date of publication (July 6, 2023).
Written comments must be submitted by Thursday July 20, 2023. The appeal period ends July 27, 2023.
Download the DNS document for additional information.

Thank you to everyone who has participated in the design process for the future Rainier Beach Playfield Skatepark. All the public meetings were well attended, and we had good input on the online surveys. Community input is critical for this project and has been appreciated by all.

The "Roll Wit Us" project campaign, based in Rainer Beach had its first public design meeting on January 19 and the final community design meeting on July 20 to present the preferred alternative.
View meeting presentations below.

Led by Danielle Jackson from CHAMPS and Scott Shinn from Parents for Skateboards, the skateboard park incorporates features for skaters and non skaters alike. The goal of the project is to serve beginning and intermediate skaters and provide gathering space for neighbors. Other wheeled activities such as roller skating are welcomed too.

Design Development will continue in 2023 in anticipation of construction funding in 2024. The community is working on additional fundraising to continue the design process and Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) is applying for state funds to support project construction. If successful, construction funding will be available in early 2024.

SPR recognizes skateboarding as a healthy popular activity. In 2007 we worked with the community on a Citywide Skatepark Plan which makes recommendations to locate and build skateparks in various parts of Seattle. Seattle has already created skateparks at Ballard Commons, Judkins Park, Jefferson Park, Virgil Flaim Park and others.

For the last four years, CHAMPS has been hosting groups of young people to discuss a skateboard park in southeast Seattle that would attract youth and provide a safe gathering place. Parents for Skateparks came along, the partnership was perfect!

The consultants are Environmental Works and Evergreen Skateparks. The organization SKATE LIKE A GIRL is a close partner.

The new skatepark at Rainier Beach Playfield will be a great addition to the Rainier Beach Community Center, local sporting activities schools, "Where's the Beach" Link2Lake Project, and the many multi-family units coming to the neighborhood.