The park that has been built atop the Myrtle Street Reservoir at the intersection of s.w. Myrtle St. and 35th Ave s.w. opened quietly Tuesday with the partial removal of temporary fencing. A full grand opening will follow but no official date has been announced.

The fence removal meant that nearby neighbors had a chance to finally enter and test out the playground equipment and take in the view. Sandra Cohen said, "I think it's fantastic. I think as many places as we can have for kids to go is good because it's a rainy place and the more activities we have the better." Cohen had supported the option to install a skate park on the site but understood other neighbors concerns about noise.

"It's a wonderful addition to our neighborhood. Our kids need it. They need a place to play nearby and it looks to be like they spent our government's money really well," said Ron McMaster.

Looking at the view with her daughter Miya, Maari Falsetto said,"Do you know that nobody has seen that view? It's the first time it's been open to the public here at the highest point in all of Seattle."

They live just a half a block away and Falsetto said, "We are so excited to have it since we have been waiting for almost 2 years for this park to open. Standing here and seeing the view of the city and the park, we'll be here all the time."

Miya said, "I'm really excited for this park to open. We've watched it develop."

She has plans for fun when the weather gets better. "Hopefully when the grass is fully grown we'll be able to come here and practice my soccer and ride my bike around here and take my dog for walks and just hang out," she said.

Maari added, "You can meditate at the highest point up there."

The park features new playground equipment, benches, and unique cement bench viewpoints that note other hills and neighborhoods around the city around a "viewing plaza" that notes the elevation of High Point as well.

The design incorporates recreational elements and ideas suggested by the community members, Parks staff, Seattle Public Utilities and the Seattle Design Commission. The design includes an open grass field on top of the lidded reservoir for informal play with a pathway circling the field and ADA accessible pathways.

The children's play area features open toy structures to enhance visibility and provide for better security.

The slopes of the reservoir have been seeded with erosion tolerant Ecoturf which includes a mix of grasses and flowers.

The new park will be open from 4 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.