Highlands

Highlands is a Kirkland neighborhood that lies north of NE 85th Street and is bounded by Interstate 405 to the east and the railroad right-of-way to the north and west, which is currently owned by Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF).

The majority of the area is developed with low-density residential use, with the southern portion of the neighborhood designated for medium density residential. There are no commercial zones located within the neighborhood, although there are several nearby, including Norkirk Industrial area to the southwest, NE 85th Street Subarea to the east Totem Lake to the north, and downtown.

Highlands is an ideal residential neighborhood close to the downtown that values its quality of life and limited vehicular access. As infill of the neighborhood occurs, its primary focus as a single-family neighborhood with areas of multifamily development continues. A variety of housing types and styles provide for a changing and diverse population, responding to the needs of young families and allowing people to continue living here long after children leave home. Newer, medium density multi-family housing is redeveloping in the southern portion of the neighborhood, adjoining the freeway interchange. It stabilizes the image of the neighborhood as a place that welcomes a variety of people at a variety of incomes.

The natural setting of the neighborhood with its valued tree canopy is protected and enhanced. Neighborhood parks are within walking distance and offer active and passive recreation opportunities. An extensive system of pedestrian and bike routes connect the parks.

Since there are no schools or commercial development in the Highlands community, residents rely on nearby shopping areas and institutions outside the neighborhood. The street network provides safe circulation for people and cars. Ample sidewalks promote pedestrian mobility between schools and activity centers. The pedestrian and bike connections within the neighborhood offer nonvehicular choices to commuters. These community connections strengthen the social fabric of the neighborhood.