Sam Smith Park

Sam Smith Park is a public recreational area located in Seattle, Washington. The park encompasses the largest and most central part of the I-90 lid, offering a unique urban green space above a major interstate highway. Named after Seattle's first African American City Councilmember, the park serves as a tribute to Sam Smith's efforts in promoting social justice and bridging cultural divides in the city.

The park features a variety of amenities for visitors of all ages. It includes a play area for children, which was renovated in 2016, providing a safe and engaging space for young park-goers. Picnic tables are scattered throughout the park, offering spots for families and friends to gather and enjoy outdoor meals.

For fitness enthusiasts, Sam Smith Park offers adult exercise equipment and tennis courts. These facilities provide opportunities for physical activity and sports within an urban setting. The park is also home to Blue Dog Pond, a detention pond that doubles as one of Seattle's off-leash areas for dogs, making it a popular spot for pet owners.

Art enthusiasts can appreciate the Urban Peace Circle, a sculpture by Seattle artist Gerard Tsutakawa. This artwork is dedicated to children who have been victims of gun violence in Seattle's inner city, adding a poignant cultural element to the park.

The park is well-connected to the surrounding area, featuring trails for biking, walking, and running that link it to nearby parks such as Jimi Hendrix Park and Judkins Park. It also includes a bicycle and pedestrian tunnel integrated with the Mount Baker Tunnel, enhancing accessibility and connectivity for park users.

Sam Smith Park serves as a multi-functional urban green space, offering recreational facilities, artistic elements, and natural areas within the heart of Seattle. Its location atop the I-90 lid makes it a unique example of innovative urban planning and land use.