Chesterfield Beach Park, a small park (0.6 acres) at 2501 100th Avenue Southeast, is one of the many Bellevue street ends developed for public use.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Southeast 25th Street (also called Terrell Road and E.N. Sears Road) ended in a small ferry dock. The area became a popular spot for recreation, and in 1935 the WPA used federal funds to improve and develop the last 60 feet of the road into a park.

When the city of Bellevue incorporated in 1953, ownership of the park transferred from King County to Bellevue. Some legal wrangling followed when a few residents feared that further park development would block access to their homes.

Today, the area is defined as a city of Bellevue “right-of-way.” This designation allows access to private properties along the street, while also maintaining the area’s status as a public park. Chesterfield Beach Park boasts a swimming area with lifeguard service in the summer months, restrooms, a fishing dock and a picnic area.

Heritage Corner is a feature in the Bellevue Reporter. Material is provided by the Eastside Heritage Center. For more information call 425-450-1049.