240th Way Northeast, Union Hill

The neighborhood has a Homeowner's Association that includes CC&Rs. The area is in a wetland zone due to the houses being waterfront properties on a small lake (or a glorified pond). It is difficult to improve back yards as they back onto the lake and there is a buffer zone in which you need to request any major landscaping from the local government. The county however maintains the private trail around the lake. There is a community play and picnic area availble for use by residents. The lake itself is inhabited seasonally by geese, ducks, eagles and various other types of birds. There are beavers present in the lake who sometimes can be seen and heard splashing around and there is evidence of biting on surrounding trees. The lake trail is beautiful each season with various points of interest, such as deciduous trees, tall evergreens, a couple of bridges, community park and a salmon ladder. The colors are beautiful in the fall and abundant in spring and green in summer. There are canopies overhead in one area and another area that feels like you are walking through a forest with old growth evergreens. Local wildlife include deer, an occasional coyote at night (cat owners need to be vigilant), rabbits, squirrels and raccoons.

There are nearby strip malls that include all the essentials, such as groceries (QFC and Albertson's); fitness; restaurants (Mexican, Thai, pizzas; fast food, Sub delis; coffee chains); banking; pet retail; drycleaning; gas stations; UPS; gift store; dental offices and pediatricians. Many other types of retail are a 10-15 minute drive into downtown Redmond. This street is located in Unincorporated King County.

I have lived here for five years and have experienced a wonderful neighborhood where privacy, compassion, but also a great sense of community prevail. There are families with children ranging from infant to high school age. The nearby schools are excellent - in fact the nearby elementary school, Louisa May Alcott, has been awarded a "School of Distinction".

The only public transport available here are cars for hire such as taxi, town car and limousine services. The SeaTac airport shuttle is available for transportation to and from the airport, which is either 30-60 minutes depending on traffic. However, a park-and-ride is located 15 minutes into downtown Redmond. The commute to Seattle is not great unless you carpool. I have been unhappy with the quality of day care in this area. I have learned to rely on friends. The local Montessori pre-school, however, is excellent.

The children in the neighborhood enjoy playing on the street, riding bicycles or playing sport. Neighbors driving through are vigilant in their speed while there are children present - whether playing or walking to and from the bus stop which is right at the entrance to the neighborhood. I believe the community is a safe and secure one, rarely is a crime commited here and people seem to look out for each other. Security is an important issue and maintained well.

As for traffic, nearby Union Hill Road is not so busy compared to downtown Redmond. The commute into Remdond is a lot shorter than it used to be due to the road widening from Redmond down to Sahalee Way.

People seem to come to this neighborhood to escape city life but can and do get together on occasion to celebrate Fourth of July or other occasions. The neighbors I have met average in age from 30s to retirees.

The homes here are expensive, but each is crafted differently in keeping with the local covenants. There are a few dogs, but none of them present a nuisance to the community. Neighbors are conscientious in picking up after their pets. The street is a quiet one, and Halloween is a great time for parents and children alike to meet and is very safe for the children. Halloween outdoor decorations are usually quite creative and fun to experience.