Bellevue Airfield Park

A Glimpse into the Past

Found in Bellevue, Washington, the 27.5-acre Bellevue Airfield Park sits on what was once the Eastgate Landfill and a small airport (hence the name). The city gradually acquired the land as three separate parcels over time.

Nature's Haven

Today, this undeveloped wildlife corridor offers a refreshing escape from urban life with its sprawling meadow, tree canopy, and wetlands. Tucked between residential neighborhoods and office parks, it's like finding a little piece of wilderness in the middle of the city.

The park features a stormwater retention pond that quietly manages runoff from the Phantom Lake Water Basin before it makes its journey to Phantom Lake and eventually Lake Sammamish.

What You'll Find There Now

Mostly, you'll discover open meadowland with tall grasses that provide home to local wildlife and birds. Walking trails trace the perimeter, meant for your morning jog or an evening stroll to clear your mind.

If you're looking to hang out for a while, there's a small picnic area with chairs and a table near the meadow's edge. Or bring a blanket and set up along the meadow borders for a more casual outdoor meal.

There's also an old basketball court on the property, though it's seen better days and doesn't appear to be well-maintained.

Bringing Your Four-Legged Friends

You can absolutely bring your dog to enjoy the trails, but keep in mind this is a leashed area. All pets need to stay on leash to protect the wildlife that calls this meadow home.

Looking Ahead

The park is in transition. In September 2024, the Bellevue City Council adopted a new master plan that will dramatically change the landscape. Future developments include a new aquatic center, pickleball courts, expanded picnic areas, and upgraded trails. These additions will replace portions of the existing meadow and reduce some of the tree canopy to make room for parking.

Community Voices and Environmental Concerns

Not everyone agrees on the park's future. Many locals have been advocating to preserve the natural habitat and meadowland, valuing this rare undeveloped space for its ecological benefits - from wildlife habitat to air purification and the mental health boost that comes from having natural areas close by.

The environmental aspects are particularly complex given the site's history as a landfill. It's designated as a Model Toxic Control Act Cleanup Site by the Washington State Department of Ecology, adding another layer to consider in development plans.

For now, much of the park remains untouched, offering you a chance to experience one of Bellevue's few remaining open spaces before its transformation. The development plans aim to strike a balance between adding recreational facilities while preserving some natural elements - though exactly how that balance will look remains to be seen.