Blog Summary:
- Friends of Waterfront Park has completed the $170 million Campaign for Waterfront Park, the largest philanthropic campaign for public space in Seattle’s history.
- With the park now open, we’re stepping fully into our new role as its nonprofit steward and year-round host.
- The celebration doesn’t stop here—gifts to the Annual Fund will help keep the waterfront vibrant, welcoming, and full of free programs for everyone to enjoy.
After more than a decade of community effort, civic collaboration, and visionary leadership, Friends of Waterfront Park has officially completed the $170 million Campaign for Waterfront Park—the largest philanthropic campaign for public space in Seattle’s history.
This milestone marks the start of a new chapter. With construction complete and the park now open, Friends steps fully into its role as the nonprofit steward, manager, and programmer of the 20-acre public space that so many helped bring to life.
“This campaign represents more than dollars raised—it’s a promise delivered. Together, we have built not just a park, but a living, breathing civic space rooted in belonging, beauty, and shared possibility. Now, our real work begins: to bring people and local communities together to ensure Waterfront thrives as a vibrant gathering space.” – Joy Shigaki, President & CEO
A Decade of Collaboration, Powered by Community
The story of Friends of Waterfront Park began in 2012 with a big idea: to ensure the once-in-a-generation transformation of Seattle’s central waterfront would create more than a world-class park for everyone.
Over the next decade, that idea became reality through civic partnerships, community input, and local creativity.
- 2014–2018: Thousands of visitors shared ideas in the Waterfront Seattle showroom, helping to shape the park’s design and purpose.
- 2019: Friends helped lead the successful passage of the Waterfront Local Improvement District, securing essential funding for the project.
- 2020–2025: Pier 62 opened as a pilot space for public life; Overlook Walk, Habitat Beach, and the Promenade followed; and Friends launched its Cultural Master Plan, shaped by 146 artists, performers, and community leaders.
- Fall 2025: Waterfront Park officially opened, welcoming Seattleites and visitors alike to explore, play, and connect along the Salish Sea.
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- Progress report: The campaign hits its goal!
Of the $806 million total investment in Seattle’s waterfront redevelopment, Friends raised the final $110 million for construction, plus an additional $60 million to support programming, amenities, and stewardship in the first thirteen years of service.
The campaign also laid the foundation for inclusive and creative engagement—supporting local businesses, forming three community advisory committees, and ensuring the park reflects the vibrancy of Seattle’s diverse communities.
“This park is for everyone, and it takes all of us to keep it thriving. Thanks to thousands of donors, advocates, and partners, we’ve reached an incredible milestone. Now we begin the next chapter: ensuring Waterfront Park remains a source of joy, pride, and connection for generations to come.” – Maggie Walker, Friends Board Chair
What Comes Next
With the campaign complete, Friends of Waterfront Park is focused on caring for and activating the space year-round. In partnership with the City of Seattle, Seattle Center, and hundreds of community partners, Friends will continue to:
- Host hundreds of free public events each year, celebrating Seattle’s creative and cultural life.
- Support local vendors and small businesses through markets and seasonal pop-ups.
- Maintain a safe, welcoming visitor experience with amenities, concierge staffing, and on-site safety support.
- Bring the Cultural Master Plan to life through programming that celebrates art, belonging, and community.
Completing the Campaign for Waterfront Park isn’t the end—it’s the beginning. Together, we’ve built a park that belongs to everyone. Now, we invite you to help sustain it for generations to come.
Your gift to Friends’ annual fund supports year-round programs, staff, and partnerships that make Waterfront Park a vibrant gathering place for all. Be part of the next chapter in Seattle’s waterfront story.