GNDT September 17 – 23

City of Seattle, Washington sent this bulletin at 09/23/2025 01:30 PM PDT

Hi all,

Sending another Good News Downtown, a communication to showcase uplifting, interesting, positive stories about activities and people Downtown.

If you have news or events to share, or if you want to talk about the work being done to revitalize Downtown, send me an email.

People crossing the street in Downtown Seattle

Credit: Downtown Seattle Association

Downtown visitation bounces back bigger than ever!

🚶🏙️ Downtown is buzzing with activity! Downtown reached 99% of pre-pandemic visitor levels last month, according to the Downtown Seattle Association’s August 2025 data. This data shows the impacts of strong business growth and infrastructure improvements on welcoming visitors to Seattle.

Over 3.2 million people explored the area in August and hotel demand fully rebounded, with more than 404,000 rooms sold. The number of people who call Downtown home also continues to grow with nearly 60,700 apartments filled, which is a 21% increase since 2019. This milestone shows Downtown is thriving again, with busy streets, bustling businesses, and an energized community.

Weekly digest

Mayor Bruce Harrell has unveiled a plan to double Seattle’s CARE crisis response team and expand resources for public safety, substance abuse treatment, and overdose prevention. Backed by nearly $40 million in proposed funding, the initiative would bring more first responders, 911 staff, and community-based services to neighborhoods across the city, including Downtown. It’s another big step toward building a safer, healthier Seattle: Mayor Harrell Announces Proposal to Double CARE Response, Invest in Public Safety and Treatment with New Revenue.

The Nisei Veterans Committee Memorial Hall in the C-ID celebrates the courage and resilience of Japanese Americans during WWII. The hall honors the legacy of Nisei soldiers and second-generation Japanese Americans with exhibits, a memorial wall, and community programs. Serving as both a museum and a community space, the hall keeps their legacy alive while fostering connection and learning for future generations: Seattle’s Nisei veterans hall honors the past while building community – The Seattle Times

An empty cocktail bar with ambient lighting

Credit: Death & Co

🍸🥃 Death & Co is opening its first Seattle location in Pioneer Square’s RailSpur development this spring. Drawn by Seattle’s creative food and drink culture, the team from the iconic New York City cocktail bar sees the city as the perfect fit for its next chapter. Guests can expect Death & Co’s signature elevated cocktails, a marble bar, and Seattle-inspired touches from local staff: Why famed NYC bar Death & Co is coming to Seattle's Pioneer Square – Axios.

🛍️ Seattle Fat Mall is redefining the shopping experience for plus-size shoppers. The Seattle Restored participant opened in a vacant Downtown office space in April, turning the space into a vibrant home to bold, size-inclusive fashions, resale gems, and event services like alterations: The Seattle Fat Mall is tailor-made for plus-size shoppers – Marketplace.

Looking ahead

🎶🌊The Oodalalee Concerts waterfront summer series wraps up this weekend, bringing one last wave of outdoor music at Seattle’s renovated Pier 62. Don’t miss Allen Stone on Friday, September 26 and Princess Nokia and Big Freedia on Saturday, September 27, for a final chance this season to enjoy live performances against the backdrop of Elliott Bay.

A person teaching kids how to toss pizza dough

Credit: Susan Fried / Seattle Center

🍝🍇 Seattle’s 38th annual Festa Italiana arrives at Seattle Center from Friday, September 26 through Sunday, September 28, with a full calendar of Italian food, music, art, cooking demos, and family fun. Be sure to catch signature events like the Prima Notte Party, the grape stomp, bocce tournament, and the Italian Car Show. All weekend long, there’s something to enjoy for all ages and appetites.

🍴🍷 One of Seattle’s rooftop favorites, Frolik Kitchen + Cocktails, reopens Monday, September 29 with a fresh look and new menu. Expect coastal-inspired dishes, elevated décor, and both indoor and outdoor seating with city skyline views perfect for enjoying sunny fall afternoons or evening cocktails above the city: This Popular Rooftop Bar In Seattle Is Reopening With A Brand-New Look And Menu This September.