Special to the Reporter

In 2022, Mercer Island voters approved a 16-year renewal of the parks levy, which continued funding for parks operations and maintenance in addition to funding playground replacements. The first playground scheduled for replacement is at Roanoke Park, and construction has begun.

This playground renovation includes new poured-in-place playground surfacing, which will provide full access to play and gathering opportunities for people with mobility challenges. The project contractor, R&R Construction, will complete demolition, drainage work, and play equipment installation before work pauses until warmer weather arrives. Once the temperatures have risen enough, the surfacing can be installed.

This project is estimated to last three to four months. Islanders wishing to use the park’s tennis court will still be able to access it at the court entrance on 70th Avenue Southeast.

PSE Green Power Program

The city of Mercer Island has partnered with Puget Sound Energy (PSE) to increase participation in their Green Power Program, which matches Islanders’ electricity use with renewable energy made from wind and solar.

Customers can elect to join the program, which directs a portion of their utility bill to help build or buy a wider range of renewable energy sources in the region and also supports the local economy through creating green jobs. The city notes that residents’ participation not only reduces their personal greenhouse gas emissions, but also helps bring the city closer to achieving the targets set in the Climate Action Plan.

PSE is running a promotional challenge this year for Mercer Island to enroll 100 new residents and businesses in the program. If the goal is reached, PSE will provide the city with a $10,000 award to build a new community solar panel project. If residents choose to participate, the additional cost is about $8 to $10 more per month for the average household (using 1,000 kWh/month).

For more information and to register, visit: https://www.pse.com/en/green-options/Renewable-Energy-Programs/green-power/mercerisland