A swimmer jumps off the dock into Lake Meridian on Monday, July 13. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

A swimmer jumps off the dock into Lake Meridian on Monday, July 13. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

Summer fun at Lake Meridian in Kent | Photos

Swimming, boating, fishing, water skiing as people social distance

People took advantage of the warm summer weather Monday at Lake Meridian Park in Kent by swimming, fishing, boating, water skiing, paddleboarding or simply sunbathing. And most were social distancing.

The temperature hit the mid 70s on Monday and should stay in the 70s and low 80s all week, according to the National Weather Service.

The city of Kent took away lifeguards this summer at the Lake Meridian beach because of budget cutbacks due to COVID-19. But that didn’t stop people from diving off the dock and swimming in the marked-off area.

Others spent the afternoon fishing from the dock hoping to catch bass, trout or one of the other species in the lake. By mid-afternoon on Monday, people were lining up for a place to park their vehicles until other drivers left. The park is at 14800 SE 272nd St.

Parents also brought their children to the popular playground, that includes a merry-go-round known as The Apollo, built by Canadian-based Dynamo Industries. It features steel-reinforced soft nylon ropes that provide plenty of places for children to hang onto as it spins.

Only a few people wore face coverings in the outdoor setting, but most people were social distancing at 6 feet apart. The shelter at the park remains closed with King County in Phase 2, which limits group gatherings. Restrooms and the boat launch are open.


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A boy jumps off the dock Monday at Lake Meridian. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

A boy jumps off the dock Monday at Lake Meridian. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

A water skier glides through Lake Meridian on Monday. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

A water skier glides through Lake Meridian on Monday. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

Time for some fishing on Monday at Lake Meridian. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

Time for some fishing on Monday at Lake Meridian. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

A man takes a boat for a spin on Monday at Lake Meridian. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

A man takes a boat for a spin on Monday at Lake Meridian. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

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