There’s nothing quite like grabbing a bouquet of fresh flowers and warm baked goods from Pike Place Market, strolling the waterfront and catching sight of the snow-capped Olympics, and stopping into your favorite boutique selling local goods. A day spent exploring Downtown Seattle seems to offer the best that our iconic Emerald City has to offer, whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor. So, it’s no surprise that despite facing the type of obstacles that many urban centers experience, particularly during the pandemic, Seattle continues to thrive—and it’s thanks in part to Mayor Bruce Harrell’s Downtown Activation Plan.

According to this King 5 article, the plan, announced a year ago, has been a success if the 43 of 46 completed initiatives laid out in its original summary are any indication. So, what’s the plan’s ultimate goal? To make downtown safer, to encourage people to move downtown, and to support local businesses. Although it might seem like downtown took a major hit in residency numbers during the pandemic—with many people leaving the city in favor of surrounding suburbs—it actually boasts a higher population than ever, with 106,000 residents currently living in the area.

In the words of Mayor Harrell, “Our goal is a robust downtown neighborhood with more housing and amenities – ensuring downtown is more than just a great place to go for work, but also a place where residents can afford to live, learn, shop, play, and so much more.” Through polling, listening sessions with residents, and meetings with city employees, they were able to build a plan that reflects the city’s unique needs and wants, diverse population, and future goals. The plan’s initiatives include opening an overdose recovery center, creating safer conditions for pedestrians and bicyclists, cleaning the city, planning community-oriented events, supporting artists, and much more.

Downtown remains one of the most exciting, vibrant places to live and explore. With events like the Waterfront Block Party, a free, all-ages party along the beautiful waterfront with live music, food trucks, activities, and more, people can enjoy the best that the city has to offer. There really is no better setting to gather with friends and family than in front of the stunning waters of Elliott Bay. Keep an eye out for our email newsletters to learn more about amazing local events, like the block party, happening in our city. Autumn might be just around the corner, but the fun never stops in Seattle—rain or shine!

Much like the Downtown Activation Plan, Waterfront Seattle aims to revitalize this prime piece of property. The project is well underway and its goals include installing green stormwater infrastructure, improving pedestrian safety by installing lighting and creating more connections to parks, and making a two-way bike path. In addition to improving the way the waterfront functions, the project is also committed to further beautifying the area with over 500 trees and greenery being planted along Alaskan Way and Elliott Way. Pier 58 was redesigned to accommodate children and families and encourage a safe and fun place to gather with a wonderful marine-life-themed playground.

If you’re curious about the waterfront’s construction progress, check out the real-time cameras for the latest updates.

We’re thrilled about the major strides the city has made in refreshing our downtown core, and we can’t wait to see it continue to grow in positive ways. If you’re interested in learning more about our favorite Seattle events, local shops, or real estate opportunities, please reach out!

Downtown Seattle Brought Back to Life