If you’ve been searching the Eastside for a fresh, new place to play, search no longer. A sprawling new spot on the Cross Kirkland Corridor (within Google’s Eastside campus) just opened and is providing families of all ages with new recreational opportunities. Round up your little parkgoers and read on for the deets on this highly anticipated play space.
photo: Jennifer B. Davis
A Major Transformation
The Kirkland community has long recognized the importance of its Cross Kirkland Corridor and its potential as a place for families to gather and play. And now with the completion of the $3 million Google project, which transformed a section of the abandoned rail corridor into a public open space, families of all ages as well as Google employees can enjoy a plethora of recreational opportunities.
photo: Sian Wu
Let’s Play!
Located just in front of Google’s 180,000 square-foot building is where you will find the new amenities including a sand volleyball court, basketball court, Crossfit/TRX fitness section, bocce ball court and plenty of lush lawns to play or spread out on. For the Littles, there’s an awesome climbing structure that will keep the tiniest of tots busy. But the best part of this new park? The tot-friendly zip line. Originally intended to be a massive zip line connecting the two office buildings (strangely, ix-nayed by legal), this rockin’ line packs just enough zip for preschoolers and adults alike.
photo: Jennifer B. Davis
Don’t Miss
While you’re at the park, be sure to check out the nod to the Corridor’s original purpose (the railroad) with an old-school caboose parked nearby. And parents, be sure to wear your kicks so you can showcase your skills on the Crossfit apparatus or stylin’ moves on the basketball court.
Good to Know
1. There are no public restrooms or covered tables, so make a pit stop before you arrive.
2. If you mosey north a few hundred yards, you’ll find the Chainline Brewing Company situated right on the Corridor. This kid- and dog-friendly space serves cold ones (and warm goodies from the often-parked food truck outside) and is the perfect pre or post park stop.
3. For closer parking to both the park and the Corridor, follow 5th Pl. S. west of the main Google campus.
4. If you and your crew are well-versed in Morse code, you’ll be able to read the secret message running north/south in the concrete pavers. (Hint: it’s Google Kirkland).
5. This isn’t the only benefit Kirkland residents now have because of Google. In June, the company announced a $200,000 donation to the City of Kirkland for a free WiFi network at Everest Park and Houghton Beach Park — both of which are within one mile of Google’s office.
Google Park at Cross Kirkland Corridor
747 6th Ave S.
Kirkland, Wa 98033
Online: kirklandwa.gov/Residents/Community/Cross_Kirkland_Corridor.htm
Map it
Have you played at this new park? Tell us what your family likes most about it in the Comments below.
— Jennifer B Davis
