What’s in the future for Seattle’s largest remaining forest? That’s up to you! Three chances ahead to talk about it

(File photo, courtesy West Duwamish Greenbelt Trails)

The first of three events to talk about the future of the forest known as the West Duwamish Greenbelt – most of which is part of West Seattle – is days away. That means it’s time to be sure you know what’s at stake and how to be part of it – here’s the full invitation from the Ridge to River Coalition:

The Ridge to River Coalition (R2R) announces community open houses to look at the future of the West Duwamish Greenbelt – Seattle’s largest remaining forest. We will explore options for a vision plan and pilot project. Participants can give their opinions and ideas about trail access, safety, stewardship, and cultural connections. Participant input will shape a long-range vision for the greenbelt. Food and child care will be offered.

Ridge to River’s team listened to feedback from a 2025 community survey and outreach at community events. Come see the design team response! You can help make the greenbelt accessible, welcoming, and environmentally healthy. We want elected officials and public agencies to understand community values when making future decisions.

Dates and locations for in-person open houses:
• Tuesday, Nov 10, 2026 (English): Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, West Seattle
• Tuesday, Nov 17, 2026 (Spanish): Duwamish River Community Hub, South Park

• 5:30 – 6:00 pm: Arrival, independent review of display boards
• 6:00 – 6:30 pm: Overview presentation (repeated at 7:00 pm)
• 6:30 – 8:00 pm: Breakout group sessions by topic. Participate in three.

Date and time for remote open house:
• Thursday, Nov 19, 2026 (English): Virtual Open House (Zoom)
• 6:00 to 8:00 pm
• Zoom link will be sent via email after registering.

Register here: forms.gle/pUGnjvSvNYy4cc5t7

Languages: Qualified language translators including ASL are available upon request. Please register and include a request. One week advance notice is required.
Child care will be offered for children ages 3-15 upon request. Please register and include a request.

The in-person open houses are three hours long. You do not need to attend the entire time. We recommend at least an hour. You can focus on issues or locations that most interest you. If you can offer this time to the community, please do! If you know others who might be interested, please share this invitation.

In 2027, R2R will return with a preferred option. R2R will gather more feedback and make refinements before publishing a final plan.

*The West Duwamish Greenbelt is an amazing natural area in the city. It stretches from the West Seattle Bridge to White Center. The forest is a vital habitat for birds and animals. It offers recreation, walking on trails to destinations, and enjoying the outdoors close to home.

*The Ridge to River Coalition includes your neighbors and community groups from West Seattle and the Duwamish Valley and the Duwamish Tribe. R2R is working to create a community vision for the greenbelt that supports environmental stewardship, respects its cultural context and addresses the needs of the surrounding communities.

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