An Island, a City, and a Coveted Community
By Erin and Charlie Sirianni | Windermere Real Estate – Mercer Island
Welcome to Mercer Island, located at the center of Lake Washington, between the cities of Seattle and Bellevue. Mercer Island features beautiful neighborhoods, acres of park space and forests, several public beaches, and a dynamic downtown with great shops, restaurants, and a small-town feel.
It’s hard to imagine, but Mercer Island was once a remote place to live. When the Lacy V. Murrow floating bridge was constructed in 1940, connecting Mercer Island to Seattle, the island’s population was approximately 1,200. With improved access, Mercer Island was one of many places across the nation to experience a rush of suburban development, which coincided with the “baby boom.” By 1950, the island’s population was 4,500 and grew to 12,000 by 1959.
Mercer Island is now home to over 25,000 residents and has over 7,000 single-family homes. You’ll find a range of property types on the island – from downtown condos to waterfront estates. Architectural styles include mid-century moderns, Northwest Contemporary-style homes, Buchan-built Traditionals, Modern Craftsman homes, and ultra-modern and contemporary-style homes as well.
