March 10, 2008
Agreement clears way for preserving open space at King County’s Soaring Eagle Park
The unique beauty and character of King County's Soaring Eagle Park will be permanently protected under an agreement struck today that preserves nearly all of the park's 628 acres as open space.
Under the agreement with the Partnership for Rural King County (PRKC), Friends of Soaring Eagle Park and the City of Sammamish, 30 acres of Soaring Eagle Park are being transferred to the city for development of a "gateway to the natural areas of Soaring Eagle Park."
Much of the remaining acreage goes into permanent conservation through an easement that will be held by the Washington State Resource and Conservation Office.
"The agreement not only provides the City of Sammamish with an opportunity to showcase its connection to this wonderful public amenity, but it also preserves a large and unspoiled tract of forestland for future generations to enjoy," said Executive Ron Sims.
"We have worked diligently to forge an agreement that remains true to past promises, meets the needs of King County residents and protects this incredible open space," he said.
"I want to thank King County Council Chair Larry Gossett for his tremendous leadership in helping us reach a compromise that allows Soaring Eagle Park to preserve its environmental uniqueness."
Soaring Eagle Park is a passive-use regional King County park, located on the urban growth boundary and offers a sanctuary to a number of animal species, including black bear, deer, owls and other birds. The park also features more than 10 miles of multipurpose trails that are enjoyed by hikers, runners, mountain bike enthusiasts and others.
The park is located at 25992 N.E. 8th St., Sammamish. More information is available here.
King County Parks—Your Big Backyard—offers more than 25,000 acres of parks and natural lands, including such regional treasures as Marymoor Park and Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, 175 miles of regional trails, plus pools and a world-class aquatic center. By cultivating strong relationships with non-profit, corporate and community partners, King County Parks enhances park amenities while reducing costs. Learn more at the Parks Web site.