Seattle Residential: I Do That

There was a time when Vashon Glacial Ice Sheet retreated to the north and Green Lake overflow found it's way to Lake Washington by way of Ravenna Creek, a process that has left this part of north Seattle with a ravine bearing the creek's name. A Realtor named Beck bought the land in 1887 and named it after the Italian city. In 1911 the City of Seattle acquired the land as a park which now amounts to 49.9 acres including the creek bed ravine, a softball field at the southeast end, a picnic area, and a wading pool/playground area on the high ground to the south of the ravine. Walking and running on trails among the old trees is a favorite activity of students and long time residents alike.

Cowen Park is now attached to the west end of the ravine and includes wide open play areas, and a play ground. In the northwest corner is the place where Ravenna Creek was day-lighted a few years ago through the efforts of many neighbors. Having the stream running again has increased the wildlife in the Ravine and the water flow as erased the problem of stagnant pools in the low areas.

The housing stock on the north and south sides of the park is mostly from 1900 to 1940. Many craftsman bungalows, Tudors and colonials can be found here. The south side is closely connected with the area just north of the University of Washington. This desirable are is sought after for it's proximity to the University and easy access to downtown Seattle. Many homes to the south have been converted to student rentals but homes between Ravenna Blvd and the park have retained their value as single family residences.

On the north side of the park is an area of about 300 homes bounded by 15th Ave NE on the west and 25th Ave NE on the east. Since there are no bridges, other than the 20th Avenue foot and bike bridge, across the ravine there is very little traffic here. Ravenna Park is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the city.

There are only 4 homes for sale in the Ravenna Park neighborhood at this time. If you would like more information on them, please let me know.