Green Loop Implementation Plan

Green Loop Info Graphic Map

Help shape the Kirkland Green Loop Trail!  

The Green Loop Implementation Plan will bring to life a longtime community vision: a continuous trail and open space corridor that will wind through the Finn Hill and Juanita neighborhoods.

The Green Loop will connect some of our most beloved parks and green spaces, including Big Finn Hill Park, O.O. Denny Park, Saint Edward State Park, Juanita Heights, and Juanita Woodlands, while enhancing recreation opportunities and preserving habitat.

Thanks to years of grassroots efforts and support from the Finn Hill Neighborhood Alliance, this vision is now becoming a reality.

The Green Loop Implementation Plan will:

  • Link parks, local and regional trails, open spaces, and destinations into one connected loop.
  • Protect local green spaces, wildlife, and natural habitats.
  • Improve access for walking, cycling, and enjoy nature.
  • Provide alternative pedestrian routes to help reduce vehicle traffic
  • Create a lasting legacy that blends recreation and environmental stewardship.

Why Your Voice Matters

The Implementation Plan will determine where the Green Loop is located, what it looks like, and how it’s built, guided by the people who live, work, and play in Kirkland. Your input will help:

  • Identify the preferred trail alignments and park connections.
  • Highlight places that need better access or protection.
  • Set priorities for amenities and accessibility.

What is the Green Loop Implementation Plan?

The Green Loop Implementation Plan will serve as a comprehensive, visual guide for advancing the Green Loop Trial. The plan will detail:

  • Recommended Pathway Alignment – including plan-view maps and cross-sectional diagrams
  • Public Engagement & Existing Conditions – a summary of community input and site assessments
  • Trail Design Standards & Maintenance Guidelines – establishing consistent design and operational practices
  • Cost Estimates & Acquisition Prioritization – providing phased implementation and property strategies
  • Funding Strategies – identifying opportunities to support construction and long-term stewardship

The Green Loop Implementation Plan will be in alignment with goals and policies of the City of Kirkland Parks, Recreation & Open Space (PROS) Plan(PDF, 25MB)

 

How can I get involved?

How will land be acquired by the City for the Green Loop?

  • No Eminent Domain
    No land will be taken by eminent domain for this project. All land acquisitions will be completely voluntary.
  • Easements and Acquisitions
    Voluntary easements and acquisitions will be pursued, completed only through appraised-value purchases or donation.
  • Donations
    Monetary or land donations are welcomed. Please contact Mariah Murphy if you are interested in making donation.
  • Property Valuation
    All acquisitions will be based on appraised value, not speculative market value.

What existing parks & open spaces are included in the Green Loop?

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the Green Loop be built? 

Once the Green Loop Implementation Plan is completed and the community has a clear vision, the next steps will be taken to begin building out the Green Loop. This is a long-term project, so specific segments and improvements may be completed gradually, with full completion of the loop expected further in the future. Getting community insights and building a vision for the Green Loop together is the first step.

Who will maintain the pathways and trails for the Green Loop?

 The agencies responsible for the management, maintenance, and operations of each pathway and trail segment will be determined as a part of the project study.

What sort of activities will the Green Loop support?

The Green Loop will provide a range of recreation opportunities. The loop will be used by walkers, hikers, wildlife watchers, foragers, trail runners, and more as well as specific areas designated for mountain bikers.

Will mountain bikes be allowed?

Yes, to best balance all user needs safely, mountain biking will be allowed in designated areas of the Green Loop.

Will eminent domain be used?

No. Eminent domain will not be used to purchase any private land from unwilling sellers.

It looks like a trail or connection is being proposed through or close to my property. When will landowners be consulted?

At this early stage in the Green Loop planning process, everyone is invited to make suggestions about where to locate a new trail, using the interactive map (Coming Soon!). Property owners are encouraged to provide their initial feedback using this same tool. Later this fall and winter, the project team will use the public and property owner input we are currently gathering to evaluate and propose specific trail alignments. Throughout the planning process, the project team will continue to ask for input from community members and affected landowners to help guide the determination of any trail alignments.