The closure of Fort Lawton located in Magnolia’s Discovery Park is bittersweet. Gone are the days of active United States military happenings and left behind are empty buildings, parking lots and opportunity. This urban park is about 534 acres and ready for new potential and protected wildlife refuge.

Fort Lawton

The most controversial issue regarding the space is what to do with former military property acquired by the City of Seattle around Discovery Park. In 2004, city planners announced it would purchase 23- 24 acres of U.S. Navy property within the park. The decision was ultimately made to demolish the structures and create open space. In 2008, plans to close Fort Lawton opened up debate over what to do with the former military base. Now that the military is gone it seems that plans for the future are moving forward. Much of the park is emptied out and decisions need to happen here, and soon.

Fort Lawton Gate

Discovery Park can attract wild animals. In the winter of 2008-2009 a coyote in the park made headlines and in May 2009 a black bear was seen. In September 2009…the park was closed because of the presence of a cougar. The animal was trapped and transported to the Cascade Mountains. Next time you hike into the park and down to the waters edge look for the Orca Whales that have been reported to be more South than usual because they are hunting salmon which are close to the rivers & streams that run into Puget Sound.

Fort Lawton – The emblem on the gate has been removed. The United States Stars and Stripes no longer waves from the flag pole. Let’s not forget this important part of Seattle history. It is truly a facinating area to explore and live close. Let us know if we can answer more questions about the area and what Magnolia has to offer. Presented by Brian C. Olsen – 206.898.3627 – Cooper Jacobs Real Estate, LLC  brian@cooperjacobs.com www.cooperjacobs.com