What does the future hold for Kirkland, Washington? As I’ve reported in numerous blog posts, we’ve got the McLeod project, Parkplace, Merrill Gardens, and a trail/commuter train all on the horizon.
Here’s another chance for you to learn more and make your opinions known:
The Trail meeting at the Houghton Fire House June 4th at 7 PM, 6602 108th Ave NE is sponsored by Eastside Trail Advocates. This is a group of Kirkland residents who are dedicated to a trail along the BNSF tracks while the proper studies are done to determine the best method of improving public transportation.
What will Parkplace look and be like? Will there be 8 story buildings? Will there be a movie theater?
The final planning commission meeting about Parkplace is scheduled for Kirkland City Hall on June 12th at 7 PM. Make sure your voice is heard. Can’t attend this meeting? Then let Angela Ruggeri know what you think. Email Angela at aruggeri@ci.kirkland.wa.us.
You can also check out the latest with Parkplace online. There are two plans on the table. The first is called the Mixed-Use Plan, which calls for a zoning change and 8 story buildings. There will be more retail, a large QFC, restaurants, etc.
The second is the Office Use Plan, which keeps the currrent 5 story height on office buildings. This plan would limit restaurants, retail, and eliminate a hotel. Hmm, makes me wonder if the developers can’t get their variance for a height restriction, who is really losing here? What do you think?
Kirkland Highlands Real Estate Buzz
I think the developer is deliberately playing hardball with the city (and all of us). They want to maximize their profits at our expense, and are willing to do whatever they have to in order to do it. It just makes me so mad! We should take a more deliberate approach to city planning, and re-zone areas ONLY to accept the kinds of development that would be good for the city!
Hi Michael,
I agree with you. The city is in a bit of a mess right now, especially with the resignation of the three members of the design review board over the McLeod project.
We all need to make our voices heard and our opinions known. Development in tandem with protecting the flavor of Kirkland, is important to many of us who live here.
I love Kirkland, although I’m over in Port Angeles. I’ve enjoyed coffee there downtown, and it’s always such a thriving little economy. I hope the urban planners are able to deal with the highways and traffic issues as the population continues to grow.
Hi Chuck,
We all hope so here, too! The flavor of Kirkland as a unique eastside “small town/city” has to be
balanced with growth and traffic for all of us to win. It would be a shame to lose the unique atmosphere of the town. However, I do recognize some of the downtown merchants need help bringing in more people to maintain their businesses.