Renton residents who have relied on the free Seattle/King County Clinic at Seattle Center will lose a key health resource after the clinic announces its closure. According to rentonreporter.com, the Seattle Center Foundation, which operates the clinic, confirmed the final pop‑up will run April 29 through May 2, 2027, at Seattle Center.
The clinic, launched in 2014 as a short‑term project, has provided free and low‑cost medical services to an estimated 3,000 community members annually. Its pop‑up model, occurring a few times each year, offered basic health screenings, vaccinations, and referrals to other providers.
In a statement, the Foundation cited staffing changes, rising operational costs, and reduced funding as primary reasons for ending the program. “When we started the clinic, we made a foundational commitment to our patients, volunteers and partners that we would never compromise on the quality of services provided,” the statement read. “As the complexities and resources necessary to produce a project of this scale continue to change, we recognize that we won’t be able to honor that commitment beyond the 2027 clinic.”
While the clinic’s assets and community relationships will be transferred to permanent healthcare entities, the closure leaves a gap for low‑income residents in Renton and surrounding King County areas. The Foundation said it will continue working with community partners to leverage its campus, experience, and expertise for future health initiatives.
Renton residents seeking alternative free or low‑cost medical care can consider several nearby options listed by the article: Lahai Health serving King and Snohomish Counties, MAPS‑MCRC Community Health Clinic in Redmond, CarePoint Clinic in Fall City, Rota Care Free Medical Clinic in Bellevue, and Pierce County Project Access. The Washington Healthcare Access Alliance also provides a directory of additional clinics.
What’s next: The final Seattle/King County Clinic pop‑up will be held April 29‑May 2, 2027. Residents are encouraged to attend for health services and referrals, and to explore the alternative clinics mentioned above for ongoing care.
Sources: rentonreporter.com
