We are the Friends and Neighbors of North Admiral, a group of families and individuals working together to bring improvements into the Admiral neighborhood of West Seattle. We're working to design and develop a natural playscape in California Place Park (California Avenue Southwest and Southwest Hill Street) to provide a slice of nature for exploration and creativity, a place to gather and connect with neighbors and respite space for users of all ages.

What is a natural playscape, you ask? Using native plants, fallen logs, boulders and lots of trees; playscapes represent a natural place such as a forest. They are designed with the intent of bringing children and people back to nature.

They offer a wide range of open-ended play options that allow children to be creative and use their imagination and offer a wide range of developmental benefits to children, rehabilitation programs and all people in general.

Who supports these improvements? People who want to work together on a project and feel more connected to their neighbors. People who want a safe, thoughtful way for children and adults alike to enjoy nature and the company of neighbors.

To date, more than 100 people have pledged their support and dozens more have provided their input, ideas and encouragement in community meetings.

What these improvements will NOT be? Exclusive only to children. Unsafe for users and neighbors. Packed with playground equipment like slides and swings. In conflict with the strategy and values of the Parks Department. Careless about the treatment of the existing trees. A waste of tax-payer dollars.

For more information about how to get involved, email annlimbaugh@comcast.net or manolita8@yahoo.com.

Ann Limbaugh

Friend and Neighbors of North Admiral