In 1968, a shopping center, Evergreen East, was proposed for development on an island of land that fell between Redmond and Bellevue. The land was annexed by Redmond in 1962, but its proximity to Bellevue made it a threat to Bellevue’s shopping centers. Kemper Freeman Sr. led the fight against Evergreen East, arguing that the Eastside could not support two major shopping centers, especially since Bellevue Square was planning to expand in the very near future. The City of Seattle also voiced concerns that Evergreen East would weaken Seattle’s downtown shopping core. There had been lots of talk about expanding the Square, but the threat of a new retail center helped make it happen. In addition, opposition from residents in the area, who were worried about the impact traffic, construction and increased paving, would have on their existing community, ultimately helped to stifle the proposed project almost ten years later.

The area that was originally cleared for Evergreen East is now known as Overlake Park and Evergreen Highlands, and is home to the Microsoft campus.

 

Heritage Corner is a feature in the Bellevue Reporter. To learn more about Bellevue and Eastside history contact the Eastside Heritage Center at 425-450-1049 or visit EastsideHeritageCenter.org.