Bellevue Voters Approve $85M Parks Levy

BELLEVUE, WA — This year's election season is officially in the books, and after results were certified this week, Bellevue can count on new levy funds to help preserve public spaces, acquire new park lands and begin planning the construction of a new aquatic center.

Certified election results showed more than 55 percent of voters approved Prop. 1, which raises the levy lid to raise $85 million for parks over the next nine years. City officials estimate the measure will cost a homeowner with a property valued at $1 million about $200 annually. Voters have approved 10 parks-related measures since the 1950s.

"I am thrilled that our residents voted to continue Bellevue's long-standing commitment to enhance our parks system and to preserve open spaces," said Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson. "Our green spaces foster community and pay dividends in well-being."

The latest levy will help fulfill priorities identified in the city's parks plan, and provides money for general operations and maintenance needs.

Here are the key goals identified by the city:

• Preserve open space, greenways and wildlife corridors.
• Develop trails, community parks and neighborhood parks.
• Invest in emerging sports opportunities, off-leash areas and recreation.
• Plan major community facilities like aquatics and cross-cultural centers.
• Restore and develop waterfront parks and protect water quality in Bellevue’s lakes and streams.
• Acquire and develop parks and open space in the BelRed and Wilburton areas.
• Protect open space and park facilities investments with funding for annual operations and maintenance.