Partnerships between cities and downtown organizations allow the pooling of resources, avoid duplication of effort, and can guide redevelopment and activation of urban parks in the direction most beneficial for downtown residents, workers, and visitors.
That’s been the case in Seattle, WA, where the Downtown Seattle Association and its Metropolitan Improvement District manage two of downtown’s most visible public spaces, Westlake Park and Occidental Park.
The immediate goal was to increase day-to-day use of the parks by workers, visitors, and residents. Ultimately, the Association wants the public spaces to become assets that attract people from adjacent neighborhoods and the greater downtown area, as well as helping nearby property owners attract tenants.
The Association and its members gain other benefits from managing the parks, as well. For now, any income generated via events and permitting is invested back into the parks and their operation. The spaces should eventually become self-sustaining, requiring no city dollars and a reduced contribution level from members, says Jonathan Scholes, president and CEO of the Association.
The full article appeared in our print edition. To always get the full story, read Downtown Idea Exchange.