We, concerned citizens of Seattle, WA, USA, urge Seattle Parks and Recreation to reconsider the proposed installation of pickleball courts and a dog park in Lincoln Park. While we understand the desire to enhance recreational opportunities for our community, we believe that these developments will have detrimental effects on both the wildlife and park-goers who cherish this natural oasis. We also inquire as to the lack of public notice and stakeholder involvement. No qualified environmental professional was consulted, both proposed projects are within or border an Environmentally Critical Area as well as a Priority Species Habitat Area

No demonstrated need has been presented by the city for the courts or for 'fast-tracking' them. We also request to know the origin of sudden funding.

We request REQUIRED PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD 

1. Impact on Wildlife:
Lincoln Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife species that rely on its habitat for survival. The construction of pickleball courts and a dog park would disrupt their natural habitats and potentially displace or harm these animals.  Urban development projects like this have been shown to negatively impact local ecosystems.

2. Noise and Light Pollution:
Pickleball is known for its bright lights and fast-paced nature. It can generate significant noise levels during play. This excessive noise and light can disturb not only the tranquility enjoyed by visitors seeking solace in nature but also disrupt sensitive wildlife species residing within Lincoln Park. Light and noise pollution negatively impact public health. Lincoln Park is home to many nocturnal species. Light pollution is catastrophic for birds, particularly during migration. 

3. Increased Traffic Congestion:
The addition of pickleball courts and a dog park will undoubtedly attract more visitors to Lincoln Park, leading to increased traffic congestion in an already busy area. This could result in safety hazards for pedestrians, cyclists, and even wildlife.

4. Environmental Footprint:
Constructing new facilities within Lincoln Park would require clearing vegetation and potentially altering existing drainage systems – actions that can lead to soil erosion, water pollution from runoff, loss of native plant species diversity, and disruption of natural hydrological cycles. These negative consequences contradict efforts made towards preserving our environment.

5. Alternative Locations Available:
Seattle has numerous alternative areas where pickleball courts or dog parks could be constructed without causing harm or disturbance to sensitive ecosystems like those found in Lincoln Park. By exploring alternative locations within the city, we can strike a balance between recreational needs and environmental there are over 80 hybrid pickleball courts in Seattle, 8 dedicated courts and 25 indoor couets- making the most per capita in the US.

We believe that it is crucial to protect the delicate balance of Lincoln Park's ecosystem while providing recreational opportunities for our community. We urge Seattle Parks and Recreation to reconsider their plans and seek alternative solutions that do not compromise the well-being of wildlife or park-goers.

By signing this petition, we express our commitment to preserving Lincoln Park as a sanctuary for both nature and people alike. Together, let us ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy its beauty without sacrificing its ecological integrity.

Stewards of Seattle Parks' Ecosystems

Seattle, WA

We have added a lawyer to our toolkit - please help us with funding: 

https://www.gofundme.com/f/legal-feesstop-pickleball-project-in-lincoln-park?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer