Time to Play at Bridle Trails Corner Park

Mayor Claudia Balducci and Parks Board Chair Sherry Grindeland shared with the Bridle Trails community an afternoon of bubbles, balloons and ribbon cutting for the Grand Opening of Bridle Trails Corner Park. Bill Aron was honored for his long-term dedication, formerly serving on the Parks Board and the Bride Trails Community Club Advisory Board. Also in attendance were Council members John Chelminiak and John Stokes.

The event was held on May 2 by the Bridle Trails Community Club (BTCC) and the City of Bellevue. Even as the Bridle Trails neighborhood has grown, the community remains dedicated to maintaining its active equestrian and rural character. Bridle Trails Corner Park, with its serene setting, restored habitat, and naturalistic playground, embodies the spirit of the neighborhood.

Neighborhood children participated alongside Mayor Balducci, cutting the ceremonial ribbon, and were then swept up in the magic of laughter and bubbles with a free performance by Bubbleman. The cooling effect of Schwan’s ice cream, sponsored by BTCC, and water, donated by Cash&Carry, helped temper the unseasonal warmth while the crowd watched Seattle Balloon Decorations artists create horses, crowns, and characters. Organic fruit donated by Whole Foods Market, cookies, and popcorn kept the energy up for yoga by Alive & Shine Center, Hula-hoops™, and park play. Volunteers of all ages manned the stations; adults connected with friends and neighbors. Bellevue Police Department motorcycle officers Chad Cummings and John Jesson greeted drivers on their way to parking provided by Westminster Chapel and the many walkers and cyclists coming through the gates.

Bridle Trails Corner Park, located at the corner of NE 24th Street and 134th Avenue NE, was funded by the City of Bellevue 2008 Park Levy. The Bridle Trails Community Club and the City of Bellevue joined with the community to create this environmentally and family-friendly space. The property was purchased in January 2011, and the Master Plan process began in early 2012. Completed in December 2014, the park features a loop pathway through forest, a wildflower meadow, native gardens with wetland views, a large grassy area, and an area with play elements based on nature. Scott VanderHyden, Lorrie Peterson and Pam Fehrman were leaders on the project from the City of Bellevue. Loretta Lopez and Ellen Kerr led the dedicated community members on the BTCC committee for parks and the Grand Opening.

Parks is one of the many projects that the Bridle Trails Community Club and the City of Bellevue work on in partnershi,p incorporating the spirit of community to steward the area’s rich, unique, natural character. As Downtown and the Bel-Red area expands, utility management and tree preservation have increasingly concerned many residents.

Looking forward, the Bridle Trails Community Club and the City of Bellevue are engaged in a second park project. BTCC located and recommended a 1.65-acre property on 140th Avenue NE. With the remaining Bridle Trails area 2008 Park Levy funds, the City purchased this property. Located next to 4.1 acres of City- owned wetland, a beautiful park will emerge that overlooks open space. The next step is for the City to begin a Master Plan Process. Upon plan completion, the community will seek funding to develop the park.

Get more information about ongoing projects by requesting a BTCC Rover subscription at www.bridletrailscommunity.org, BTCC News, Rover subcriptions

If you missed the event, stop by the Corner Park for a visit.

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