GNDT September 24 – 30

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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.


A group of people singing karaoke

Credit: Akash Pamarthy / The Seattle Times

Gen Z creators are bringing people together Downtown!

🧊🔥 The Seattle freeze is melting thanks to a new wave of local Gen Z content creators. These young influencers are using TikTok to get people offline and connected IRL. By hosting casual meetups, social events, and creative gatherings in Downtown and throughout the city, they’re helping their peers build community and bringing fresh energy to Seattle. The movement highlights how Gen Z is reimagining social life in Seattle and how influencers are using their voice to foster quality connection Downtown.

Weekly digest

Mayor Bruce Harrell signing legislation with Director Markham McIntyre, Division Director Diem Ly, and other stakeholders

🖋️ Mayor Bruce Harrell unveiled a new package of reforms and investments to help small businesses thrive, including streamlining permitting, reducing or exempting B&O taxes for 90% of Seattle businesses, and expanding the Back to Business Program. This means fewer vacant Downtown storefronts, improved security and faster repairs after property damage, and more vibrant retail corridors in Downtown and across the city: Mayor Bruce Harrell Highlights Small Business Support Programming and Budget Investments.


Tridents up! 🔱⚾ The Mariners clinched the American League West title and their upcoming playoff games this weekend are expected to bring in millions to the local economy. Some revenue is expected to be generated through admissions and meal taxes, directly supporting Seattle’s arts, culture, and housing programs. The postseason games are also expected to generate a surge in hotel stays, restaurant visits, and local spending, all of which help strengthen Downtown’s economy and community programs: Mariners' playoff run to generate millions for arts community, culture and housing – KOMO.


Mayor Harrell joined Tribal leaders, City officials, and community partners at the second biennial City of Seattle Tribal Nations Summit

💙 The second Tribal Nations Summit brought together Mayor Bruce Harrell, City Councilmembers, 10 Tribal Nations, and 120 Tribal and City leaders at City Hall. This event marked a significant step toward better upholding tribal sovereignty, trust, and treaty rights within local policies. The City shared its progress and engaged in meaningful discussions to build stronger relationships and improve engagement with Indigenous communities: City of Seattle and Tribal Nations Convene for Biennial Summit to Strengthen Partnerships and Shape Shared Priorities.


A new coffee spot is coming to the Waterfront! ☕🌊 70 and Sunny Coffee Co. will open in a space on Pier 70, filling a storefront vacant since 2022. The new shop will feature a walk-up window, locally baked goods, and sidewalk seating so you can enjoy the views with your coffee. Owner Amy Clapper was inspired to create a community coffee shop, and hopes to add picnic kits and kid-friendly treats in the future: Coffee shop to take over vacant Seattle waterfront space – Puget Sound Business Journal.


People participating in a collaborative paint pour

Credit: Jesse Higman

🏃🎨 Seattle’s first Walk Don’t Run art marathon was a huge success, bringing more than 100 local artists Downtown! The showcase of local art and culture filled streets and plazas with music, dance, and visual art. Thousands joined the two-mile route, celebrating creativity and adding fresh momentum to Downtown’s cultural revival: Seattle’s WALK DONT RUN Festival is a Major Success for Downtown – Seattle Magazine.

Looking ahead

🌳🌿 Join the C-ID Community Workday at Danny Woo Garden. Come out to the garden and volunteer to serve the community! Projects vary, but can include mulching pathways, weeding, and removing invasive species.


People wearing headphones and dancing

Credit: Downtown Seattle Association

🕺🏼🪩 Head to the first ever Pioneer Park Silent Disco this Thursday, October 2 from 4 – 6 p.m. This is one-of-a-kind dance-by-headphones experience in Pioneer Square, coinciding with the First Thursday Art Walk. Bring your dancing shoes and your friends for a music-driven evening under the city lights.


🌍 CroatiaFest is coming to Seattle Center this Sunday, October 5. Experience Croatian culture through music and dance performances by the finest Croatian musicians, singers and dance ensembles from the Pacific Northwest, Canada and beyond.