RENTON, WA — The City of Renton has finalized the purchase of 12.5 acres along the Cedar River, securing a rare opportunity to expand one of the community’s most treasured public spaces. The newly acquired land—containing 1,500 feet of riverfront—will be transformed into an expanded Cedar River Park, strengthening public access, restoring shoreline habitat, and supporting the region’s long-term salmon recovery goals.
City officials described the acquisition as a generational milestone. The expansion fulfills longstanding recommendations outlined in the 2006 Tri-Park Master Plan and reaffirmed in both the 2011 and 2020 Parks, Recreation, and Natural Areas Plans. By adding this riverfront property, Renton is advancing a vision more than two decades in the making while responding to growing public demand for open space, recreation amenities, and environmental stewardship.
“Opportunities like this are incredibly rare. It’s uncommon for a property of such high value to become available, and even less likely that the circumstances will align for the city to acquire it. This purchase will benefit the community for generations, creating a lasting asset that reflects our shared commitment to the city’s future,” said Renton Mayor Armondo Pavone.
A Piece of Renton History
The property, owned by the Merlino family for more than 50 years, holds deep roots in local industry. It was once the original headquarters of Stoneway Concrete, a business that supported decades of regional construction.
“The Merlino family is excited that this legacy property will be preserved as a park for the enjoyment of the entire Renton community,” stated Gary Merlino.
City leaders say the transformation of the site from industrial use to restored natural space reflects Renton’s evolving vision for its riverfront—one centered on habitat restoration, sustainable access, and community wellbeing.
Economic and Recreational Momentum
Gina Estep, Renton’s Community and Economic Development Administrator, emphasized the long-term benefits of the project.
“This acquisition is tremendous opportunity to enhance the already vibrant quality of life we enjoy in Renton,” Estep said. “Seeing this land transform into a vibrant public amenity fills me with immense pride, knowing it will be a source of endless joy, active recreation, and a vital connection to nature for the future generations of Renton.”
Economic development leaders also expect the project to contribute to broader investment in the surrounding area.
Amanda Free, Renton's Economic Development Director, said, "Public investments, such as the expansion of this park signal long-term confidence in the area, encouraging private sector growth and catalyzing new economic activity. These combined investments help create high-quality amenities that attract and retain a skilled workforce."
Master Planning and Community Engagement to Begin
The acquisition follows extensive public engagement through the city's Parks, Recreation, Open Space (PROS) Plan, which reaffirmed strong community support for expanding Cedar River Park.
Maryjane Van Cleave, Parks & Recreation Administrator, said the acquisition aligns with years of community advocacy.
“This property has been a shared priority for our community and our department for many years, and recent engagement reaffirmed the public’s continued support and interest in this site. We’re excited to begin master planning with residents and design a park that restores the river’s natural character, expands access to recreation to everyone, and complements the pool, community center, and existing park spaces next door,” she said.
With the purchase now complete, Renton’s Parks and Recreation Department will begin a focused master planning phase. This process will explore restoration strategies, recreation features, and infrastructure improvements, guided by extensive community feedback. The ultimate goal: a park that strengthens Renton’s connection to the Cedar River while supporting ecological health.
A Transformative Investment in Renton’s Future
Local leaders say the expanded park will serve as a cornerstone of Renton’s outdoor recreation system—linking community amenities, restoring critical habitat, and creating new opportunities for gathering, exploration, and environmental education.
The acquisition represents both preservation and progress, ensuring that future generations have access to a revitalized natural space that reflects Renton’s commitment to livability, sustainability, and community pride.
Originally reported by City of Renton.
