Downtown Seattle Association Proposes New Not-for-Profit Focused on Central Waterfront Redevelopment

Interesting new approach for exploring the exciting possibilities of transforming Seattle’s waterfront! Here’s the press release:

The Downtown Seattle Association (DSA) is asking Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn and the Seattle City Council to support development of a not-for-profit entity dedicated exclusively to the long-term funding, development and sustainability of the Central Waterfront Redevelopment project.

With the removal of the Alaskan Way Viaduct, there will be significant opportunities for economic revitalization and new public spaces along Seattles Central Waterfront. To facilitate these opportunities, the DSA recommends the creation of a not-for-profit to collaborate with private property owners, quasi-public entities, state and local governments, regulatory agencies and departments, and potential user groups. The DSA issued the proposal in the form of a letter sent today to the Mayor and City Council: https://www.downtownseattle.com/pdf_files/news/DSAWaterfrontLetter2.29.12.pdf

Redeveloping Seattles Central Waterfront provides the city with significant potential for growth, but it will be an extremely complex project, said DSA President and CEO Kate Joncas. A not-for-profit entity such as the one we propose would apply its exclusive focus and expertise to Waterfront revitalization, and would have the flexibility to solicit philanthropic donations and other fundraising. A new nonprofit could oversee this process, and get the revenue needed for this important revitalization of our community. Similar to the Seattle Aquarium Society and its support of the Seattle Aquarium, the DSA proposed non-profit would work closely with the City.

The Waterfront redevelopment project is one of the most ambitious projects in our regions history, and a game-changer for Downtown Seattle, added Joncas. A not-for-profit entity such as those established for New Yorks Central Park and others will provide the dedicated focus and expertise required for a project of this scale.

Non-Profit Functions

The proposed not-for-profit organization could be chartered with:

• Building broad-based community support for the project
• Identifying and establishing partnerships with adjacent land owners and private organizations
• Developing financing and phasing approaches
• Conducting outreach leading to formation of a Local Improvement District
• Organizing early programming and activation of existing Waterfront public and private spaces
• Establishing connections to other Downtown neighborhoods, and physical improvements to East/West corridors
• Ensuring the Central Waterfront design embraces Seattles fundamental assets
• Reviewing and proposing changes to land use, zoning and the regulatory environment to facilitate additional investment adjacent to public spaces
• Mitigating parking and construction impacts
• Early programming and activation of existing Waterfront public areas
• Engaging the public and community groups to support necessary public investments

The removal of the viaduct and development of new public space also presents a unique opportunity to repurpose buildings and property adjacent to the project, and create new uses such as outdoor cafes, music venues and retail shops, said Patrick Gordon, a principal with Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Architects, member of DSAs Board of Directors and chair of its Urban Environment Committee. A comprehensive evaluation of existing land use and other regulatory policies should begin immediately to identify all potential barriers to achieving new private investment which adds to the vibrancy of the public space, aligns with our heritage and culture, and supports our economy.

Thatcher Bailey of the Seattle Parks Foundation added, The new Seattle Waterfront will showcase the stunning, natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. A new not-for-profit can work to make sure the development adheres to the high environmental standards for which Seattle has become well known.

As part of the proposal, the DSA emphasizes the importance of having a not-for-profit established prior to the final Waterfront recommendations this summer from lead designer James Corner, in order continue momentum and advance the project without delay.

The DSA has identified the Central Waterfront as a critical transformative project for Downtown, as part of its five-year strategic plan. The plan was developed last year and included input from nearly 500 stakeholders, including individuals in arts and culture, retail, non-profit, business, hospitality communities, as well as Downtown residents.

About Downtown Seattle Association: Established in 1958, the DSA is a member-based non-profit organization that champions a healthy, vibrant urban core. By advocating on behalf of business, non-profit, arts and residential interests throughout Downtown Seattle, DSA ensures that Downtown is a world-class place to live, work, shop and play.

As champions for a healthy vibrant urban core, the Downtown Seattle Association has developed a strategic plan to build on the communitys unique assets and respond to economic, environmental and social needs. By inviting public dialogue, reflecting a diversity of perspectives, the organization has identified priorities and strategies for Downtowns future and for evolving DSA to better meet the needs of the community today and tomorrow, together. To learn more about the DSA visit: https://www.downtownseattle.com/. For more about the strategic plan a five-year roadmap for DSA and Downtown Seattle view the Strategic Plan Summary.