In July 1949, the Shorewood Apartments, located on the old Fortuna Park waterfront property as well as several upland acres, were opened for occupancy. The apartment interiors featured beautifully tiled bathrooms, hardwood floors, stunning crown molding and base, and spacious floor plans. The apartments are located within 40 buildings designed as a residential neighborhood in a beautifully landscaped setting. In the Fall of 2001, the 568 apartments homes were lovingly restored paying particular attention to the elegant interior finishes of the original construction. New additions include energy saving windows, CAT 6 wire, and Local Area Network capability within the apartment homes.
Shorewood was credited with initiating the unprecedented population growth on the Island. School enrollment increased 287% from 1949 to 1951 as a result of Shorewood’s opening. Thus not only did Mercer Island experience astronomical growth in their public school system, but improved transportation systems, business district expansion, and single family home development resulted from the growing population.
 In 1960, the citizens voted to incorporate the City of Mercer Island and chose a council-manager form of government. Shorewood housed the Island’s City Hall and police department for 28 years making Shorewood the hub of Mercer Island’s business district. Shorewood also had a small convenience store for residents known as "The Rooster Tail", opened by famous hydroplane driver Bill Muncey. It was closed after his unfortunate death in a hydroplane accident in the early seventies.
Today Shorewood stands elegantly poised overlooking Lake Washington. With brick, wood trim, and elegant windows it is a designer’s paradise among the beautiful trees and flowers that grace its grounds. In February 2002 seventy-eight condominium quality new apartments were added to the existing community. These apartments feature underground parking, elevator access, private balconies and decks, and fireplaces. The Resident Center known as The Pavilion also opened which includes a 24-hour fitness facility and business center.
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