The following is a release from the city of Kirkland:

Construction of the Kirkland Urban project, a mixed-use pedestrian-oriented development at 457 Central Way, is scheduled to begin March 21, 2016.

Phase one construction will impact the adjacent Peter Kirk Park and require construction of a temporary road that will run along the eastern edge of the park to provide access for QFC customers.

City-owned underground water and sewer utilities will also be relocated from the project site into the park requiring temporary trenching and removal of some trees. All public amenities in the park such as the playground, skate court, tennis courts and basketball court will remain open during construction and pedestrian access through the park is a priority.

Construction is expected to take two years and the developer will plant new trees and provide improved landscaping and lighting in the park as well as new pathways linking the park to the Kirkland Urban shopping center. The developer will also be contributing to a fund to do additional enhancements to the park in return for the temporary road access.

When complete, Kirkland Urban (formerly known as the Parkplace Development) will be a total of 1,175,000 square feet. The estimated square footage for the project includes 650,000 square feet of office space; 225,000 square feet of commercial space including an expanded QFC and space for retail, a movie theater and health club; and 300,000 square feet of multi-family residential space with a maximum of 300 dwelling units.

For more information about the Kirkland Urban project and impacts to Peter Kirk Park, please visit the City’s website or www.kirklandurban.com.