Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and King County Executive Dow Constantine announced a new agreement over the future of City Hall Park, which would result in the City retaining ownership and devising a plan to use Prefontaine Park’s park and fountain area in a safe manner.
In accordance with the new agreement, the City of Seattle would increase park activation, security, and visibility following an expected vote by the City Council to approve the mayor’s proposed budget, which allocates $2.8 million to the park. Previously, the City and County agreed to a land transfer in which 13 county-owned parcels would be exchanged for City Hall Park. This agreement will now be voided.
Mayor Bruce Harrell stated, “After months of sustained consultation on this prospective property swap, we feel City Hall Park should remain with the City of Seattle.” “My budget plan includes an expenditure of $2.8 million to activate this area and ensuring that it is a well-maintained and welcome location in the heart of Downtown. City Hall Park will play a crucial role as we collaborate with King County and Executive Constantine to continue developing this area and rejuvenating our Civic Center campus with employees and activity. We look forward to collaborating with Councilmember Andrew Lewis and the City Council as they examine our budget proposal and as we move forward together.”
Executive Constantine stated, “I look forward to the City of Seattle making investments and enhancements to this downtown Seattle landmark.” “Transforming this long-neglected site into a safe and enjoyable park for thousands of King County employees, jurors, customers, visitors, and residents will contribute to the revitalization and restoration of downtown Seattle. King County appreciates Mayor Harrell’s idea to establish a friendly and secure front yard for our historic courthouse.
The planned $2.8 million investment will be the initial phase of Mayor Harrell’s proposal, supporting activation, capital improvement, and additional design and planning. Under this plan, financial investments will be made to activate and reinvigorate the park through the construction of a permanent structure that will serve as a public gathering place and information hub, as well as a venue for concerts and other events that will draw people. In addition to cleaning and activating the historic fountain at Prefontaine Place, the City will investigate options for installing public bathrooms in the park.
“City Hall Park is an irreplaceable historic area,” said Lisa Howard, executive director of the Pioneer Square Alliance. “The Alliance and surrounding community look forward to collaborating with the City of Seattle, King County, and other partners to create a more welcoming and vibrant urban environment for the inhabitants and visitors of south downtown.”
The City will continue to collaborate with the King County Metro Police and the Sound Transit Police to maintain a visible safety presence at transit stations and stops, as well as with nearby property owners and tenants to ensure that appropriate building security measures are in place.
Other reactivation attempts include allowing food trucks to park in the park during the week and partnering with local businesses to fill vacant storefronts nearby, so increasing foot traffic and commercial activity. The addition of new movable and fixed seating places will allow residents and employees to enjoy their meals. In addition, navigation kiosks and multigenerational leisure areas will be erected to assist tourists in navigating the downtown center and Pioneer Square.