The South Portage Bay Habitat, located where 15th Avenue East dead-ends into the Portage Bay wetlands, is now complete. The park will have a dedication ceremony on Thursday, October 6, 2011 at 3:00 pm. All Montlake neighbors are invited to attend. The last addition to this wonderful pocket park is several large boulders showing the artwork of Barbara Earl Thomas. The stones depict crows, one of the many bird species that inhabit our neighborhood parks.

The habitat is connected to the Montlake Community Center grounds on the west edge of the parking lot. A trail travels through the wetlands to 15th Avenue East and the entrance to the habitat.

A fleet of neighborhood workers have transformed this former blackberry vine-covered lot into a scenic spot for the neighborhood to enjoy.

With the help of grants from the city and a huge amount of sweat and time from numerous helpers, there is now a trail to the water, native plantings, a small patch of lawn and a bench.

There is hardly a blackberry bush in sight. The habitat provides a view of Portage Bay that is scenic and changes with the seasons.

I find it quite calming to sit and watch the water, boats, water lilies, ducks and other birds and know that I‟m a long way from the traffic congestion on the 520 viaduct over head.

Montlake residents owe a huge THANK YOU to all the workers who have donated their time and effort to bring us this nice addition to our neighborhood.