This month, we catch up with Chris Woodward, Community Development Director for the Alliance for Pioneer Square. Chris leads the Alliance’s marketing, communications, and advocacy strategy. Chris utilizes a diversity and equity lens to support the Pioneer Square community’s needs.
Chris honors the authenticity that Pioneer Square exudes by finding innovative approaches to amplify the neighborhood’s ethos.
As part of the Alliance for Pioneer Square, what do you hope to accomplish through your work in the coming year?
The Alliance has a robust set of programming this year that will activate neighborhood public spaces, promote retail-level programming, and provide opportunities for community members to connect with one another. Throughout the year, I hope that the Alliance work will continue to move Pioneer Square into a more prosperous time following a difficult period of economic activity.
Spring is here! What can the Pioneer Square community look forward to in the neighborhood this season?
Pioneer Square has so much to look forward to this spring, beyond the warming temperatures and increasing presence of sunshine. One highlight will be our Annual Spring Clean, which will happen on the morning of May 20th. Last year’s Spring Clean was an abundant success, with over 200 volunteers showing up to clean the neighborhood. I’m hoping for a similar turnout this year. It’s a great opportunity for folks to meet others who live, work, and play in Pioneer Square!
What are some of the Alliance’s recent achievements or successes that you’re particularly proud of, and why?
I am proud of the Alliance and the community’s advocacy to keep City Hall Park in the hands of the city, as well as the accompanying allocation of funds in the City of Seattle’s 2023-2024 budget. These accomplishments last year set the stage for the park reopening this summer with special attention being paid to how the space is activated. The Alliance is committed to ensuring the park is a safe and welcoming space, and look forward to supporting our partners at Seattle Parks and Recreation.
How do you think Pioneer Square fits into the broader landscape of Seattle, and what unique characteristics or qualities does it bring to the city as a whole?
Pioneer Square IS the most unique neighborhood in Seattle. Our long, storied history provides a one-of-a-kind backdrop for the neighborhood’s current economic and cultural activities. No where else in Seattle can someone experience our neighborhood’s diverse mix of architecture, arts, cuisine, and more. Pioneer Square provides a sense of character that combines the new and the old.
On a more personal note, what’s the best book or movie that you’ve finally gotten around to reading or watching recently?
I took up trail running in 2020 when gyms across the city were closed. Since then, it has become a near weekly activity, weather permitting. This spring, I have sought out books by trail runners to learn more about the sport and the various techniques involved. I’m currently reading “Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen” by Christopher McDougall, which has been a source of inspiration during the long runs when my legs start to get tired and I want to quit. Next up is “Eat & Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness” by one-time Seattleite Scott Jurek.