Livable South Downtown
Overview
On April 25, 2011, the Seattle City Council unanimously voted to approve a bill to increase density in South Downtown neighborhoods through amendments to Seattle’s Land Use Code. The bill also includes provisions addressing historic preservation, new open spaces, building form, street designs, and small businesses. New provisions were effective on June 1, 2011. 
 
Livable South Downtown Ordinance.
Ordinance Map Exhibit A: Rezones West of Interstate 5. (PDF 940 KB)
 
Download a brochure about the bill. 
 
 
 

 

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The Department of Planning and Development initiated a planning effort to focus on the neighborhoods of South Downtown. The South Downtown Study iwas a project of the "Center City Seattle" strategy. The Center City strategy focuses on encouraging economic growth, transportation, new housing and great urban neighborhoods in Seattle's downtown core and the nine centrally located neighborhoods immediately around it.

The South Downtown planning project examined growth and planning issues specific to the following neighborhoods (see aerial map):

  • Pioneer Square;
  • Chinatown/International District (including the Little Saigon area east of Interstate 5); and
  • the northernmost edges of the Greater Duwamish Manufacturing and Industrial Center.

Project Goals and Objectives
The overall goal of the South Downtown project was to stimulate housing and related development consistent with the Mayor’s Center City for great urban neighborhoods. Several specific goals and objectives for the project included:

  • Stimulate housing and jobs through zoning and land use decisions
  • Respect neighborhood character and neighborhood plans
  • Promote an integrated mix of uses
  • Support quality connections between neighborhoods and the downtown as a whole
  • Encourage economic vitality and environmental sustainability
  • Accommodate regional services and ensure they align with the goals of the local community

See the background page for more information.

Specific Objectives

  • Evaluate zoning opportunities and constraints, particularly in regard to achieving more housing and jobs
  • Identify the desired character of areas currently lacking clear development direction
  • Recommend and implement City land use actions to support an emerging residential/employment community
  • Consider opportunities for sustainable practices in future development
  • Recommend public and private investments that would contribute to a well-balanced community in South Downtown

For more information on the South Downtown planning effort see Key Contacts.

Last Updated:

Sept. 8, 2011