Seattle Approves Major Mixed-Use Project For Pioneer Square

"Vibrant with art galleries, retail stores, restaurants and two first-class stadiums, but without enough housing opportunities, Pioneer Square lacks the large residential population that made this landmark district Seattle's first urban neighborhood. The area currently includes just 960 dwelling units, of which approximately 720 are income-restricted or subsidized.

Because Pioneer Square is a city historic district, there are strict limitations on how landmark buildings may be modified. This makes it more difficult to develop new housing or accommodate residential amenities.

There is a solution. Under the North Lot redevelopment proposal, a 3.85-acre sea of asphalt would be replaced by at least 400 housing units — both ownership and rental — for people of various income levels.

Many of these units will provide needed work-force housing for some of the thousands of people who work in downtown Seattle every day. Approximately 100 units of housing for lower-income residents would be constructed through a partnership with the Seattle Housing Authority. Overall, housing will comprise at least 60 percent of the development's total square footage."