Seattle has been given nearly $2m to upgrade districts near its core.
In practice, this will mean that Ballard will receive a new public restroom. In addition, Occidental Park will obtain public furniture. Other projects in the city will also get the funding to make progress.
The emphasis is going to be placed on efforts to improve the aesthetics of neighborhoods. For example, graffiti is to be removed. When all the work is completed, brochure printers in Tacoma could be used for place marketing purposes.
Ed Murray, Mayor of Seattle, has said:
“Thriving, walkable business districts are vital to the success of Seattle's neighborhoods. We work with local leaders and business owners on these grants to develop a shared vision that brings more shops and restaurants – and jobs – to neighborhoods throughout the city.”
Not all of the money will be spent in the same way. There are plans for some of the cash to be allocated to entrepreneurs from groups that can be marginalized in Seattle society.
It is also the case that the local transport infrastructure will get a boost, with reports that pedestrians and cyclists will both be catered for as part of the development.
The Capitol Hill district is set to get the most money, while Rainier Valley will get the least. The International district, which is coupled with Chinatown, will get a similar amount of resources as Capitol Hill.
