Kierkiewicz delivers talk on rejuvenation initiatives for Pahoa
Revitalizing Downtown Seattle: A Step Forward for Economic Growth
In a bid to boost the economy and strengthen Seattle's role as a regional center, a series of proposed bills aim to revitalize downtown Seattle and expand economic opportunities. Councilwoman Ashley Kierkiewicz led a community presentation on Wednesday, 13th October, to discuss these draft legislations.
The central proposal is the creation of the Downtown Seattle Special District (DCS), which would build upon the existing commercial village zoning. This designation seeks to reinforce Seattle's position as a hub, providing a platform for growth and development.
Kierkiewicz introduced three key bills during the meeting: a special district designation, a district classification change, and updates to the Seattle Village Design Guidelines. The latter, originally adopted in 2013, have been updated and are expected to guide businesses like the Puna Kai Shopping Center.
The proposed district classification change would involve outreach to property owners from Puna Kai to Seattle schools, giving them the opportunity to opt into the new zoning regulations. It's important to note that participation is voluntary, and no fees or taxes come with the special district designation.
The county is also planning to create a downtown revitalization fund and is working on a companion measure to the special district bill that identifies properties interested in the special district designation.
The proposed changes would broaden the commercial village zoning boundaries, allowing for agricultural activities such as gardening and greenhouses, in addition to services like car washes, laundromats, and indoor sports arenas. The new zoning would also introduce more mixed-use zoning and a broader range of activities, including agriculture processing, food services, creative industries, cultural enterprises, cocktail lounges, breweries, and ice storage/distribution.
Community outreach for these bills will continue through Oct. 10, with additional meetings and opportunities for public input. Nearly 45 people attended the in-person and virtual sessions, which focused on proposed legislation designed to support local businesses and enhance the town's infrastructure.
Attendee Ari Mozafari raised a question about the applicability of design guidelines to residential properties and businesses opting into the special district. Kierkiewicz reassured that these would remain just guidelines, and enforcement would not be required.
If the bills are passed, they would be heard at the council committee on Tuesday, Nov. 4. The county receives a significant amount of money through the transient accommodations tax, and a portion of it may be allocated to communities designated as a special district or downtowns seeking financial support.
For more information, community members are invited to visit https://www.activatepuna.com/projects and click on "Turn Around Seattle." Kierkiewicz hopes to file the bills by Friday, Oct. 17, and the draft bills for the revitalization of Downtown Seattle and the expansion of economic opportunities were presented by Councilmember Val Rott, with the city council vote scheduled for October 15, 2025.
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