Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill is the name for the area running along the hills on the eastern side of I-5 from I-90 to the southern border of the city. From their hilltop vantage points, many homes have mountain, city and water views. Home styles range from classic craftsmans to suburban style mid-century ranches and split levels and back to a recent increase of new modern craftsman-style homes and townhomes. Even with the current growth in townhomes and condos, Beacon Hill is still almost exclusively mid-sized single family homes on fairly large lots. Price per square foot in this area is also still quite reasonable.

Visible from miles away, on the top of Beacon Hill, is the old marine hospital, now popularly known as the Amazon Building. PacMed operates health clinics on the lower floors and Amazon.com is headquartered in the remaining offices. However, Amazon will be consolidating all their Seattle offices to South Lake Union by 2010, creating much rumor and speculation about potential new tenants for the historic building.

Also coming to Beacon Hill by 2010 is the long-awaited Sound Transit Light Rail station. New housing communities have been sprouting up along the tracks since the project was announced. Street improvements and business development have also dramatically changed the look and feel of the area surrounding the new station. The Light Rail will connect Beacon Hill with downtown Seattle to the north and south through city neighborhoods to the SeaTac Airport.

With the addition to the Light Rail, Beacon Hill is becoming a commuter's dream with easy access to I-5 and I-90 and to the Mountains-to-Sound Greenway biking trail connecting Seattle with King County's eastside over the I-90 bridge. Additional paved trails run through the neighborhood with plans to expand across I-5 to downtown and the waterfront by (guess when) 2010.

Of course, when you get off the freeway, train, or trail at Beacon Hill you will want something to do other than marvel at the fantastic views. Jefferson Park draws visitors from around the city for its public golf course, lawn bowling, community center and other recreation opportunities. Additional parks, family-owned restaurants and small stores also dot the area. Nine public and a handful of private schools serve the children of Beacon Hill, providing both education and a place to play. One school in particular, Maple Elementary, has gained notoriety as a shining example of success with a multi-lingual popluation. This Federal Blue Ribbon School will be featured on the United States Department of Education webcast in January 2008.

Come claim your spot in Beacon Hill while the prices are still in reach.