Pioneer Square Health Impact Assessment

Pioneer_Square_HIA_final_16June2014_Page_01Does Pioneer Square need a grocery store? According to a study recently completed by the Health Impact Assessment graduate class at the University of Washington we do. The Pioneer Square Health Impact Assessment (PDF) considers the neighborhood’s built environment, community and social services, mobility, and economic issues, all with an eye on the effects on human health. Other key findings include:

  • Provide a public toilet in the heart of the neighborhood
  • Encourage developers to include affordable housing in new residential buildings
  • Continue the expansion of bike lanes and pedestrian sidewalks

Much of the assessment considered the goals and objectives of the neighborhood’s 2015 plan, Pioneer Square 2015—A Strategy for Seattle’s First Neighborhood. Members of the 2020 strategic planning subcommittees will use the study to inform their recommendations for areas of focus during the next five years.

We’re deeply grateful to the students and faculty who produced the assessment. Their labor, analysis and expertise will help the Square continue to improve through a greater understanding of our condition and the strategies we can use to improve.

 

David Yeaworth

Deputy Director

Alliance for Pioneer Square

Occidental Park Programming Suggestions

Dan Biederman, of Biederman Redevelopment Ventures, is the force behind the revitalization of Bryant Park in New York.  The Alliance for Pioneer Square began working with Dan and his staff in April to develop a business and activation plan for Occidental Park. Our partners include The Seattle Parks Foundation, Friends of Waterfront Seattle, the Downtown Seattle Association and the Metropolitan Improvement District, and the City of Seattle Parks and Planning and Development.

This work was generously funded by the RD Merrill Company, with many hours of staff time from the Alliance and partner organizations. Dan and staff were in the neighborhood this week meeting with stakeholders. We expect to receive the first draft of a plan in the coming weeks. Since so many of you have asked, we are sharing their most recent presentation here.