Crossroads, Bellevue facts for kids
Crossroads is a lively neighborhood in Bellevue, Washington. It's located in the northern and eastern parts of the city. You can find it south of Bellevue-Redmond Road, east of Bellevue's Wilburton area, and north of Lake Hills. It's known for its friendly community and a popular shopping center.
Discovering Crossroads Neighborhood
Crossroads is a busy and diverse area within Bellevue. It has grown a lot over the years. Many people enjoy living here because of its convenient location and community feel.
A Look Back: Crossroads History
The area we now call Crossroads was first known as "Highlands." For many years, from the late 1800s into the early 1900s, the land was mostly used for cutting down trees. This wood was important for building.
By the 1920s, farming became popular in Crossroads and the nearby Lake Hills areas. Many Japanese immigrant families worked on these farms. However, farming stopped suddenly in 1942. This happened because many Japanese American families were forced to leave their homes during World War II. After the war, suburban houses quickly replaced the farmland. Crossroads officially became part of Bellevue in 1964.
Crossroads Today: A Community Hub
The Crossroads Shopping Center first opened its doors in 1962. It got a big makeover starting in 1988, thanks to Ron Sher. Today, this shopping center is much more than just stores. It acts like a lively community center where people gather.
By the early 2000s, Crossroads had become a very populated area in Bellevue. It was the second most crowded spot, right after the downtown area. By 2010, more than 60% of the people living in the Crossroads neighborhood were from diverse backgrounds. This makes Crossroads a truly multicultural place.
