WSDOT (Washington State Dept. of Transportation) Pond and landscape is complete. The 17.28 million gallon capacity pond now features a pedestrian bridge built with custom-milled cedar timbers harvested from sites in Issaquah Highlands, a paved trail that  connects to the trail system, and an extension of the bike path.

Kumon Learning Centers has opened a new location in Issaquah Highlands. Located across from scenic WSDOT pond, Kumon offers math and reading enrichment programs for children ages 3 to 18.

Kumon Center director Cindy McVay chose the Issaquah Highlands location to be closer to more Kumon families.
The majority of their students live in Issaquah Highlands, making the new location on Park Drive an ideal situation. “We’re so pleased to be here in Issaquah Highlands,” said McVay. “This community is home to about two-thirds of our students, so it’s the most convenient location possible. Now that the good weather is coming, we hope that many students will walk or bike here. We’re looking forward to sharing the benefits of Kumon with as many families as possible.”

More than four million children throughout the world have already benefitted from the Kumon method, which helps students master the basics of reading and math while improving study habits and self-confidence. “Kumon Issaquah was recently awarded Gold Elite status,” continued McVay. “Gold Status is based on the academic performance of our students. Much of this success can be attributed to our excellent local schools and teachers, as well as the  dedication of parents.

We look forward to building on this success in our new Issaquah Highlands location.” In addition to Kumon Issaquah, McVay is also director of the Kumon center in Snoqualmie. Kumon established its first Issaquah location in 2004. The Kumon method was founded in Japan more than 50 years ago and is now an international franchise organization. The program, which focuses on maximizing each child’s potential, is a supplement to school-based curriculum.

Kumon Issaquah is located at 1036 NE Park Drive. For more information, visit www.kumon.com.

The WSDOT pond is complete! Landscaping and trail enhancements were finished in early December for the 4.3 acre storm water detention pond south of the fire station. The 17.28 million gallon capacity pond now features a pedestrian bridge built with custom-milled cedar timbers harvested from sites in Issaquah Highlands, a paved trail that connects to the trail system, and an extension of the bike path.

Boulders and rocks from nearby work sites have been integrated into the landscaping plan and more than 200 trees and 500 shrubs have been planted to add to the pond’s picturesque setting. A new waterfall also adds to the pond’s attractiveness, making it the perfect place for a walk, jog or bike ride.

Come springtime, visitors will experience an added surprise: the blooming of wild flowers that were seeded this fall. The pond, which helps to manage storm water flows, re-circulates water in the pond to control stagnation and the growth of algae. It was built and landscaped by Port Blakely Communities and will now be transitioned to the City of Issaquah for management and maintenance.