On a sunny Friday September afternoon, our team joined more than 100 paddlers at Gasworks Brewing for the 6th Annual Clean Lake Union Paddle Race. The event brought together community members, advocates, and supporters for a fun-filled day on the water in support of cleaner, healthier waterways.
We look forward to this tradition every year. It’s a chance to get out of the office and soak in the sun while connecting with like-minded neighbors who share our passion for protecting Lake Union.
With the biggest turnout yet, this year’s race raised $80,000! These funds will go directly toward future Clean Lake Union projects that will protect and restore our local waters.
King County Council member Jorge Barón (left) speaking to the audience alongside Mark Grey.
The day also featured remarks from King County Councilmember Jorge Barón (District 4), who highlighted the importance of CLU’s work. Gasworks Brewing generously donated $1 for every pint sold, and the after-party continued with live music from Wonderpuppet.
Beyond the Race
The annual CLU Paddle Race brings the community together on the water while funding projects that tackle stormwater pollution. We’re proud to partner with Clean Lake Union on several bioswales and green infrastructure projects in our neighborhood including the three phases of the Aurora Bridge Bioswales and the bioswale at Northlake Commons. Together, these projects are cleaning 4.8 million gallons of polluted runoff annually.
This year’s race took place beside CLU’s newest project, the Eastern Avenue Street-End bioswale. Once complete, it will capture and filter about 250,000 gallons of polluted stormwater each year before it reaches the lake. The site originally inspired the formation of Clean Lake Union. Construction began this month and will wrap up with a volunteer planting day on November 7. Join the fun and register!
Join us next year
Mark your calendars: the 7th Annual Clean Lake Union Paddle Race is scheduled for Friday, September 11, 2026. We look forward to another great event and to continuing the work of protecting our local waters!
