The article discusses Seattle’s efforts to transform the downtown area in a post-pandemic world by incentivizing the conversion of commercial buildings into residential spaces. Mayor Bruce Harrell’s proposal aims to remove barriers and cut costs associated with these conversions in order to increase the number of residents in the area and make the city more livable. The legislation provides exemptions from design review standards and the city’s Mandatory Housing Affordability requirements in order to encourage these transformations.
The author reflects on indicators of a genuinely resurgent city, developed last year, and how the mayor’s proposed legislation aligns with those indicators. The legislation is seen as an innovative intervention that will repurpose vacant and underused commercial properties for residential use, creating mixed-use spaces in designated zones. While the legislation does not directly address artistic expression or other factors such as community subsidies, safety assurance, creativity, and street sounds and scents, it is viewed as a step towards enhancing the downtown area.
The exemptions provided in the legislation, especially from the Mandatory Housing Affordability program and design review processes, are subject to further discussion and debate. While the exemptions aim to streamline the conversion process and reduce costs, concerns exist about their potential drawbacks. Critics worry that exempting conversions from these requirements could hinder efforts to increase affordable housing and compromise design quality in the city’s built environment.
The article suggests a more nuanced approach to the exemptions, such as implementing scaled contributions to affordable housing based on project size and creating alternative mechanisms to ensure design quality. While the initial effort by the Mayor’s Office is viewed positively, there is a need for refinement in the implementation of the legislation. City leaders must allow for co-creation and input from the community to positively impact the housing landscape and built environment in Seattle. The constantly evolving nature of the city requires adaptive measures to ensure that it remains a desirable place for residents post-pandemic.
In conclusion, the article highlights the challenges and opportunities facing Seattle as it navigates the post-pandemic landscape and works towards transforming its downtown area. The mayor’s proposal to incentivize the conversion of commercial buildings to residential spaces is seen as a positive step towards increasing livability in the city. However, the exemptions provided in the legislation raise concerns about affordable housing and design quality, necessitating a balanced and nuanced approach in the implementation process. Ultimately, Seattle’s government must work towards co-creating a city that remains attractive and inclusive for its residents in the future.
