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Council approves scope, engagement plan for Dean’s Children’s Park renovation
Summary
Council approved a focused site-scope and public engagement plan to guide renovation of Dean’s Children’s Park (the “Dragon Park”), prioritizing accessible playground replacements funded by the parks levy and pursuing additional funding for other site amenities.
The Mercer Island City Council voted to approve a narrowed scope of work and a community engagement plan for renovation of Dean’s Children’s Park (often called Dragon Park), directing staff to advance design and outreach to finalize a site plan.
Why it matters: Dean’s Children’s Park is identified in the city’s parks levy as one of the first playgrounds to be replaced. Council and staff said the site is well suited for improved universal-access play because of its relatively flat topography, proximity to Island Crest Park parking, and multiple entry points.
What was approved
- Scope and phasing: The council approved a focused site-plan approach that prioritizes replacement of playground equipment using levy funds and seeks other funding (grants or donations) for additional amenities (picnic shelter, restroom repairs). Staff emphasized the scope excludes a full 20-year master plan and instead targets immediate priorities for the playground and adjacent access improvements.
- Public engagement: Staff will run a community engagement program that includes a “Let’s Talk” project page, up to two open houses (in-person and virtual), targeted surveys, outreach to the Parks & Recreation Committee (PRC), and coordination with the citizen coalition that formed as “Friends of Dragon Park.” Staff confirmed they have already begun stakeholder briefings and invited broader participation at summer events.
- Timeline: Staff said they will complete predesign and engagement in 2025 and intend to have final site planning complete by the end of the year to allow construction of playground elements in the following year.
Vote and motion
- Motion to approve the scope of work and community engagement plan was moved by Councilmember Weinberg and seconded by Deputy Mayor Rosenbaum. The council approved the motion by roll call (Weinberg: Aye; Andral: Aye; Rosenbaum: Aye; Mayor Saleem Nies: Aye; Reynolds: Aye).
Quotes and community input
- Public commenter John Hamer, representing “Friends of Dragon Park,” described the group’s goals: “Our goal is to help the city renovate Dean’s Children's Park to the highest possible standards of accessibility and inclusivity for those of all ages and abilities.” Hamer said the group includes Mercer Island Rotary, Mercer Island Preschool Association, Friendship Circle and Moms for Safe Mercer Island and that they stand ready to partner with the city.
- Chief of Operations Jason Kidner said the city would target levy funds to playground replacement and seek grant funding for other site amenities; Kidner described the restroom closest to the picnic shelter as “dilapidated” and noted existing utilities provide an opportunity for future improvement.
Ending
Staff will begin the planned engagement and design work under the approved scope and return to council with concept alternatives and a preferred site plan; funding beyond levy-provided playground replacement will be sought through grants and partnerships.
