Westlake Park To Close for Major Renovation, Improvements

Westlake Park, the heart of downtown’s retail core, will temporarily close for construction in October as part of a long-planned redesign led by Seattle Parks and Recreation and the Seattle Parks Foundation. 

The project will modernize infrastructure, add new landscaping and improve the park’s overall design — all in advance of the summer 2026 FIFA World Cup. The DSA/MID has moved our programming and equipment out of the space, but the park’s surrounding businesses remain open and active. This construction, planned to be wrapped up in the spring, will not affect the Sound Transit Link light rail Westlake Station.

DSA’s annual Tree Lighting Celebration will still take place the day after Thanksgiving.

“This renovation is a significant investment in one of downtown’s most iconic public spaces,” DSA Vice President of Public Realm & Ambassador Operations Jennifer Casillas said. “We look forward to seeing the improvements take shape and welcoming the community back to a revitalized Westlake Park.”

In the meantime, visitors are encouraged to enjoy other DSA-managed public spaces, including nearby McGraw Square, First & Pike, Occidental Square, Pioneer Park and Bell Street Park.

Designs for the park, which was built in 1988, include:

• Electrical upgrades for improved site lighting and seasonal events
• Improved conditions for existing trees
• Leveling of existing pavers throughout the site
• Removal of outdated features including the fountain and arch
• Improvements to the stage for accessibility
• Addition of vehicle barriers using crash rated bollards and deterrents

The renovation has also been recently covered by KOMO News and KIRO 7.