Anderson Park | Redmond

Anderson Park is a historic and cherished green space situated in the heart of downtown Redmond, Washington. Established in 1928 and developed with significant input from the Federal Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1938, the park holds the distinction of being Redmond’s first official city park. Spanning approximately 2.8 acres, Anderson Park is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting its importance as both a recreational and cultural landmark within the community.

Historical Context and Significance

The park is named after Albert Anderson, the city’s first park superintendent, who played a key role in its early development and maintenance. During the 1930s, as part of the New Deal programs designed to boost employment and community infrastructure, the WPA funded the construction of several park features that remain integral to Anderson Park’s character today. Among these are two iconic log cabins-the Adair House and the Fullard House-which were built in 1938. Originally serving various civic functions such as housing the Redmond Senior Center and city administrative offices, these structures have been preserved and are now available for public rental for events, meetings, and social functions. Their rustic log-cabin style adds to the park’s historical ambiance, providing visitors with a tangible connection to Redmond’s early 20th-century heritage.

Park Layout and Features

The layout of Anderson Park combines open green spaces, recreational facilities, and heritage structures in a compact yet inviting environment:

Picnic Shelter: The park features a covered picnic shelter that offers a comfortable and sheltered gathering space. This shelter underwent a substantial renovation completed in 2011, which carefully restored its original 1930s design elements, ensuring that it retains its historic charm while meeting modern usability standards.

Playground: Designed with children in mind, the playground includes a variety of equipment such as swings, a slide, a zip line, tire swings, a teeter-totter, and a sandbox. These features cater to different age groups and provide active play opportunities. However, it is important to note that in November 2024, the playground sustained damage due to a windstorm and is currently undergoing repairs, reflecting ongoing efforts to maintain the park’s safety and appeal.

Outdoor Stage and Brick Plaza: Anderson Park boasts a brick-paved plaza that incorporates an outdoor stage, creating a versatile venue for community events, live performances, and festivals. This space is integral to the park’s role as a cultural hub, supporting a variety of public gatherings that enrich local social life.

Restrooms: Public restroom facilities are conveniently available on-site, enhancing visitor comfort and accessibility.

Art Installations: Throughout the park, carefully curated art pieces contribute to the aesthetic experience, blending artistic expression with the natural and historic setting.

Community Garden: Reflecting Redmond’s commitment to sustainability and community involvement, a new community garden is currently under construction within Anderson Park. Scheduled to be completed for the 2025 growing season, this garden will feature 20 individual plots-6 designed to be ADA accessible-surrounded by extensive pollinator-friendly plantings. This initiative encourages urban gardening, environmental education, and neighborhood engagement.

Usage and Accessibility

Although Anderson Park does not have a dedicated parking lot, visitors can find street parking in the vicinity. Its central downtown location makes the park easily reachable on foot, bike, or via public transportation, offering convenient access to residents and visitors exploring Redmond’s nearby shops, restaurants, and business district.

The park’s amenities and historical ambiance make it a popular destination for a wide range of activities:

Families and individuals utilize the picnic shelter and playground for everyday recreation and casual outings.

The outdoor stage regularly hosts concerts, theatrical performances, and seasonal festivals, attracting diverse audiences and fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.

The rental of the Adair and Fullard Houses supports private events including meetings, social gatherings, and special occasions, providing spaces that combine rustic charm with functional amenities such as kitchen facilities, seating, and bathrooms.

The community garden offers opportunities for residents to engage in gardening regardless of physical ability, promoting sustainability and urban agriculture.

Summary

Anderson Park stands as a unique blend of history, community engagement, and urban green space. Its establishment during the New Deal era, preservation of historic log cabins, and continued enhancement through modern amenities and community projects exemplify Redmond’s dedication to honoring its past while fostering an inclusive and vibrant public space. The park’s rich legacy, combined with its central location and diverse offerings, make it a cornerstone of downtown Redmond’s recreational and cultural life, welcoming visitors year-round to enjoy its natural beauty, historic features, and lively community events.