Council backs biotech hub at South Lake Union

SEATTLE –The Seattle City Council Monday finalized and passed a resolution supporting the concept of redeveloping the South Lake Union area as a possible hub for biotechnology.

At the same time, the Council called for community involvement in the process.

The resolution does not commit any City funding for specific projects, but spells out guidance for the City's plans in South Lake Union. These include:

• Making transportation improvements to reconnect the South Lake Union street grid and promote connections with downtown and Seattle Center, as well as advocating for transportation funding for the "Mercer mess" or alternatives;

• Improving infrastructure to support the anticipated long-term growth and revitalization, including the addition of a new substation and potential creation of an energy district and supporting a network for distributed energy;

• Creating a business-friendly climate and relationship with City agencies, including land use code amendments, an overall streamlining of the City's permitting process and simplifying the business licensing process;

• Preserving and improving open space and parks critical to the livability, vitality and character of the South Lake Union neighborhood;

• Developing and implementing strategies for affordable and low-income housing; and

• Ensuring proper public involvement that include both business development and community stakeholders to create an overall neighborhood character that is livable, attractive, economically robust, and a regional model of economic revitalization.

The resolution did not indicate a Council position on the proposed streetcar.

Seattle City Council release, June 9

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