Seattle Begins Community Process to Rename Jackson Park

The City of Seattle is launching a community-driven process to consider a new name for Jackson Park in north Seattle, following renewed calls for a name that better reflects the area's history, cultural significance and the communities it serves.

On November 13, 2026, Mayor Katie Wilson directed Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) to begin gathering suggestions from residents, park visitors and community members.

Located at 1000 NE 135th Street, Jackson Park includes green spaces, natural areas, walking trails and recreational facilities. The property is also home to Jackson Park Golf Course, which features an 18-hole course, a nine-hole executive course, a driving range and practice facilities.

Why Is the City Considering a New Name?

Jackson Park is named after former U.S. President Andrew Jackson. His legacy includes policies that led to the forced displacement of Native American peoples from their ancestral lands.

Community members have raised concerns about continuing to honor that history through the name of a public park. The city says the renaming process is intended to identify a name that better reflects the land, its history and the people who use the park.

The discussion is also taking place as new light rail connections and planned pedestrian and bicycle improvements create opportunities to strengthen the park's connections with nearby neighborhoods.

How to Submit a New Name

Seattle Parks and Recreation is inviting the public to submit potential names under the city's established Park Naming Policy.

The Parks Naming Committee will evaluate suggestions using several criteria, including:

• The history of the land.
• Distinctive natural or geological features.
• The park's geographical location.
• Historical and cultural significance, including Indigenous history and connections to the land.

Names honoring individuals may also be considered if the person has been deceased for at least three years and made a significant contribution to parks, recreation or culture in the local community.

The deadline for submitting suggestions is Monday, December 14, 2026.

Each submission should include a brief explanation of the proposed name and how it meets the city's naming criteria.

Suggestions can be submitted by email to PKS_BPRC@seattle.gov or by mail to:

Seattle Parks and Recreation
Parks Naming Committee
100 Dexter Ave. N
Seattle, WA 98109

The Parks Naming Committee will review the proposals and make a recommendation to the Seattle Parks and Recreation Superintendent, who will make the final decision.

More Opportunities for Community Feedback

In addition to the naming process, Seattle Parks and Recreation plans to launch a community survey about how people use Jackson Park and what improvements they would like to see.

The survey will cover everyday park conditions, including safety, cleanliness, trail conditions and connections to surrounding neighborhoods. Information will be shared through the department's blog, social media and QR-code signs posted throughout the park.

Residents can also participate in Community Swing, an event hosted by Seattle Parks and Recreation and Troon Golf on Saturday, November 21, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Jackson Park Golf Course.

The event will include free 10-minute golf lessons, free use of Toptracer, club fittings, music, face painting, discounted green fees and barbecue food specials. Parks staff will be available to explain the naming process, provide access to the survey and collect community feedback.

The city is encouraging neighbors, park users and other Seattle residents to take part in the process and help shape the future identity of Jackson Park.