Metropolitan King County Councilman Reagan Dunn released this statement regarding the grand opening of the Cougar/Squak Corridor Park on June 6, National Trails Day:

“In 2012, this land was under threat of being clear-cut. Thankfully, through the work of many, we are able to celebrate the opening of a new park that provides varied recreational opportunities and protects critical habitat,” said Reagan Dunn, whose Council district includes the Cougar/Squak Corridor Park.

“I’m so happy this all came together,” said Dave Kappler of the Issaquah Alps Trail Club. “Without support from concerned area residents, Reagan Dunn, Dow Constantine, and The Trust for Public Lands, this would not have happened. We are going to have great weather this weekend and Washington Trails Association did a wonderful job building the new trail. Everyone should really come out here to experience it firsthand.”

King County purchased 226 acres in the valley between Cougar and Squak mountains in 2014, with the help of The Trust for Public Land.

Now under public ownership, this land will provide for both recreational opportunities for area residents and will preserve the lands rich forest habitat which supports a variety of wildlife.