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Commission weighs consolidated pocket-park requirement for large Redmond subdivisions
Summary
Staff proposed requiring a contiguous 6,000-square-foot usable open space for subdivisions with 50 or more units to ensure usable recreation areas rather than many small fragmented pockets; commissioners and public commenters raised concerns about HOA costs and potential alternatives such as mixed-use amenities.
During its Nov. 19 hearing, Redmond planning staff proposed a change to the city’s "great neighborhood principles" open-space standard intended to ensure usable recreation areas in higher-density subdivisions.
Under current policy, the city requires 3,000 square feet of open space per 25 units. Staff proposed that subdivisions providing at least 50 lots or units be required to supply a consolidated, contiguous 6,000-square-foot open space configured for active recreation rather than several small fragmented parcels. "For every 25 units, 3,000 square feet of open space needs to be provided," the presenter noted while explaining the proposed consolidated threshold.
Commenters and commissioners emphasized developer and homeowner costs: the open space is typically owned and maintained by HOAs, and several speakers worried small pocket parks impose ongoing maintenance and insurance costs on homeowners. One commissioner suggested exploring mixed-use or developer-supplied amenities or asking whether part of the city park program could accept ownership to reduce HOA burdens.
Staff said the change is part of a broader 18-month review of neighborhood principles that will include stakeholder engagement and more detailed drafting. Commissioners asked staff to bring back examples and numbers for targeted review before a final recommendation.
