The city of Renton has officially purchased 12.5 acres of land to expand the Cedar River Park.

The city announced on Dec. 5 the purchase of the property adjacent to the Cedar River Park, adding 1,500 feet of riverfront to the park. In a press release, the city announced it will enhance public access to the riverfront, facilitate lasting shoreline restoration, and support the growth of Cedar River salmon recovery efforts.

“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,” Renton Mayor Armondo Pavone said in the release.

The property has been owned by the Merlino family for more than 50 years. It was first identified in the 2006 Tri-Park Master Plan and recommended for future acquisition in the 2011 and 2020 Parks, Recreation, and Natural Areas Plans. The location served as the original headquarters for Stoneway Concrete.

“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,” Renton Parks and Recreation Administrator Maryjane Van Cleave said in the release.

The Renton City Council approved an ordinance to acquire the land through eminent domain in July, but the city described the acquisition process as a “friendly condemnation” because the eminent domain action was requested by the existing property owner for tax benefits.

The city said the process “allows for the procurement of private property for public use through a more collaborative and beneficial approach than formal condemnation proceedings, while paying a fair market value to the property owner.”

“The Merlino family is excited that this legacy property will be preserved as a park for the enjoyment of the entire Renton community,” Gary Merlino, a member of the family, said in the release.

With the acquisition complete, the Renton Parks and Recreation Department will begin the master planning process to refine the design and evaluate specific amenities. The department also said community input will continue to guide this work as they “shape a park that enhances recreation, restores natural habitat, and strengthens connections to Cedar River.”