Seattle mayor proposes zoning reforms to fill empty storefronts

M.Ayor Jenny Durkan wants to fill the downtown store fronts that COVID-19 has emptied.

The proposed regulation would relax Seattle’s licensing rules and expand the range of businesses that can do business in the downtown area. This could include doctor’s offices, gyms, art installations, and bicycle parking. Belltown and Pioneer Square would also allow food processing, horticulture and handicrafts that were once restricted to the International District.

The rule change applies for 12 months after it comes into force. Companies that receive approval during this period can stay indefinitely but cannot expand their operations.

“Downtown is Seattle’s economy and heartbeat, and it’s up to us to make sure it comes back better than ever for anyone who lives, works or visits,” said Durkan. “This temporary change to allow more uses for our storefronts will help restore the vitality of our inner city.”

Durkan’s proposal was supported by Seattle City Council members Dan Strauss and Andrew J. Lewis, who describe it as a path to innovation and new business opportunities.

Seattle City Council has passed numerous reforms in the past few months to give small businesses more freedom in the wake of the pandemic. In May, the city passed a law allowing the city’s street cafes to remain operational until May 2022. The outdoor offerings should contain COVID transmission over the past year, but city guides have hoped their continued operation will increase pedestrian traffic for downtown businesses.

According to the Downtown Seattle Association (DSA), 462 stores have permanently closed since January 2020. Since then, 279 new shops have opened, 183 shop fronts are empty. Around 42% of the businesses with shops were pubs, 28% were retailers and a further 30% were in the service sector.

Restaurants are the leading new businesses popping up in the downtown area, while retail and services are second and third. The DSA hopes that a more diverse downtown area will mean more business when tourism returns to Seattle.

The story goes on

James Sido, a DSA spokesman, believes Durkan’s ordinance will help downtown offer a “more exciting mix of options.”

“Mayor Durkan’s proposal is a welcome step to liven up the city center,” said Sido. “Downtown Seattle should be one of the easiest places in the area to bring in your business, new idea or concept.”

On Wednesday, Seattle joined the rest of Washington state to relax face masks and social distancing mandates. In addition, Seattle companies can return to full capacity and enforce health regulations at their own discretion.

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Keywords: States, News, Seattle, Washington

Original author: Tim Gruver, The Center Square

Original location: Seattle Mayor proposes zoning reforms to fill empty storefronts