Just weeks after a global warming study identified Downtown’s intense density as cause for its extreme heat status, a new land use proposal aims to make it easier to fill every small lot in Belltown by relaxing building standards.

Seattle’s drive for extreme density downtown is equaled by its commitment to battling climate change. But a new heat map co-sponsored by the City shows these goals at odds. Read On….

As Charter Amendment 29 awaits certification for the November ballot, expect more hot debate on this important but flawed legislation borne from the City’s six-year paralysis addressing the homelessness crisis. If you’re still on the fence, Belltown United recently hosted a definitive short course to inform your vote.

After flourishing for months, the tent city lining Third between Pike and Union disappeared this week. Thirty-three people accepted new shelter and the sidewalk re-appeared. As the community sighs with relief, we thank all involved in this recovery mission and ask, how to maintain it?

And the answer is “not” if you’re downtown—at least not easily. Seattle’s lack of public toilets is sometimes grossly evident and has a controversial past. One business owner thinks it’s time to address this public health issue head on with the help of new federal relief funds.

In Seattle, access to daylight is marketed as the ultimate amenity in new luxury towers. Ironically some of these towers will block up to 100% of daylight to neighbors. Will lack of equitable planning divert this essential resource to those who pay top dollar?

With 100 condos and nearly 70,000 people living downtown, one resident is crowd sourcing answers to find best practices for condo communities.