Seattle eases restrictions in bid to fill empty downtown storefronts
Dental offices, hot yoga and mini museums may soon be coming to a downtown Seattle storefront near you, thanks to a new temporary law that allows for a wider range of businesses to utilize spaces formerly reserved for retail and restaurants.
Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan announced Monday she will sign the 12-month law aimed at filling vacant spaces that line some downtown streets. More than 450 street-level businesses downtown have permanently closed since March 2020, according to the Downtown Seattle Association (DSA). Seattle City Council unanimously approved the legislation.
Previously, only select types of pedestrian-friendly businesses could operate in the storefronts. The city will now allow businesses like medical offices, gyms, art installations and bike parking to occupy the spaces. Those that open in the spaces will be allowed to stay, but won’t be able to expand their footprint.
Once these new rules go into effect in September, businesses and building owners will be able to apply for a permit from the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) to change the use of their storefronts in these areas. To get started with the permitting process, please visit this page on how to submit.
https://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/news/2021/08/16/seattle-looks-to-fill-empty-downtown-storefronts.html
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