Community Survey
Survey Now Closed! Stay Tuned for Results!
THANK YOU to everyone who participated in our community survey, which ran from Mother’s Day to August 11, 2023! More than 5,000 community members completed the questionnaire. We are now compiling the results of this phase of the project and will make them public in November.
Washington Park Arboretum Community Survey
ABOUT THIS SURVEY
The Washington Park Arboretum and Seattle Japanese Garden are in a period of growth and change. The Arboretum Foundation and UW Botanic Gardens are surveying and connecting with community members this summer (2023) to learn about their needs and desires for the future of this unique green space and cultural asset.
One exciting change is that a 28-acre parcel currently being used for the SR-520 bridge replacement project (see map below) will be returned to the Arboretum at project completion. Community input will shape the design and use of this land.
Aerial map showing the Arboretum in green and the North End Parcel in orange.
FAQS
What is the Washington Park Arboretum and the Arboretum Foundation?
The Washington Park Arboretum is the official arboretum of the State of Washington, and the region’s largest and most important botanical garden. It includes the Seattle Japanese Garden, constructed in 1960. The Arboretum is cooperatively managed by Seattle Parks and Recreation and the University of Washington Botanic Gardens, with major support from the Arboretum Foundation.
What is being considered for the 28-acre parcel?
This parcel, referred to as the North End Parcel, will be returned at the end of this decade. At this early stage, we are collecting very broad input and ideas, but priorities include recognizing the Coast Salish peoples as the original inhabitants of the land and hearing from non-users as well as current users of the park. The final outcome will require further study beyond this summer.
How can I provide input?
There are many ways to provide input. There will be an online survey. Also be on the lookout for in-person opportunities on your next visit to the Arboretum. Visit this project webpage to stay up to date on all events and study progress. You can also sign up to our email list to receive updates about the survey. Email us at survey@arboretumfoundation.org to join the conversation.
Will the results be public? When will they be available?
Yes. The study is funded by the Washington State legislature, and the results will be public. We expect data collection to be complete by September. The final report will be complete in November. The report will be published here on the project webpage, and email list (see above) members will be notified.
Who is conducting the study?
The Arboretum Foundation, in partnership with the UW Botanic Gardens, contracted with Seva Workshop and Biederman Redevelopment Ventures to conduct the study.
How do I get more information?
Got a question about the survey? Email us at survey@arboretumfoundation.org.
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