The Southlake - South Lake Union Community Blog

SLUFAN Election Flub Spawns Lake Union Opportunity Alliance

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 02:34:00 +0000

Coming off the double whammy of SLUFAN's vote to approve South Lake Union's upzoning and an election in which the SLUFAN board had three chances to improve on its 8 percent resident representation but didn't, a new group has formed to represent our community.

Lake Union Opportunity Alliance, a group of current and former residents and stakeholders of South Lake Union, Capitol Hill, Eastlake, and the Lake Union houseboat community, has banded together to offer another vision for South Lake Union.

Founding members of the Alliance have sent the city a letter citing their "considerable concern" over the recent re-zone proposals as well as the composition of the SLUFAN board.

Specifically, the group is concerned a lack of specific development constraints in the re-zone proposals will allow developers to construct an oppressive wall of towers across much of the neighborhood. They also believe too much density is being planned for the neighborhood, as the SLUFAN proposal would add anywhere from 25,000 to 38,000 additional dwelling units.

LUOA also called for affordable housing, housing and schools for families and community space that would serve to identify the neighborhood.

More on the P-I.

SLUFAN

Chairman: Steven Paget

South Lake Union Friends And Neighbors (SLUFAN) is South Lake Union's community council...
Learn More

Information provided by the South Lake Union Wiki

Mercer Fix: The Issues

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 03:21:00 +0000

City Councilmember Nick Licata presented his case against the Mercer Fix at last night's Cascade Neighborhood Council meeting to mixed reactions: some supportive, some befuddled.

To be fair, Licata is not against fixing the Mercer Mess entirely—he's against the two-way Mercer as proposed and doing it at other project's expense. Unfortunately, this would likely mean nothing would be done (think Viaduct, 520, etc.).

Let's move on to the issues. But first, let me preface the rundown by explaining that most of Licata's arguments revert to an alternative plan formulated in 1999. Said plan would leave Mercer as is and instead widen Valley, with a possible pedestrian bridge across Valley Street for access to Lake Union Park. For the sake of brevity, we'll refer to this as the '99 plan.

Traffic

Let's start off with traffic. After all, it's certainly at the front of the mind for residents of Queen Anne, Magnolia and Fremont. Fair enough, it is a transportation project.

The two key routes are westbound (I-5 to Seattle Center) and eastbound (Seattle Center to I-5).

At the morning's peak traffic hour, travel times both ways would either stay the same or improve by up to 4 minutes (westbound) versus doing nothing.

At the evening's peak traffic hour, travel times get worse. Depending on whether two-way Mercer ends up being seven lanes or six lanes there's a big swing. Seven lanes gets up to 3 minutes longer (eastbound) than Mercer as is. Six lanes, however, would be up to 11 minutes longer going east.

This is Licata's main argument. The Mercer Fix Nickels et al are proposing has six lanes, but seven lanes could be achieved by lopping off a row of parking (which has some impact on pedestrians since they are that much closer to the traffic).

Cost and Funding

The Mercer Fix costs $200M and has a large ($170M) funding gap. According to Licata, his '99 plan would cost just $47M (80% less).

There's one problem here in Licata's argument. A large portion of the cost of either project is going to be in acquiring the land the widening thoroughfares would encroach upon. The city once owned the land necessary to move forward with the '99 plan. When the plan fell through, they sold it to Allen for $20M. The value of that land now, thanks to Lake Union Park and South Lake Union redevelopment in general, is upward of $60M. Licata's plan suddenly becomes more expensive.

As for the funding gap, Nickels is proposing to use internal funds from the Bridging the Gap levy, a fund for transportation maintenance and improvements, as well as the employee head tax and commercial parking tax. In addition, the project would use proceeds from utilities, any state or federal money, and 'other' (see section on economic development for likely source)

The real key to the funding plan is a windfall the city has seen in the commercial parking tax. That money can either go toward this project, or, as Licata would have it, shotgun sprayed across the city.

Viaduct Synergies

Nickels says its critical Mercer goes both ways to alleviate traffic during the Viaduct's destruction and rebuild whatever form that may take. Licata says his guys tell him it would make no difference. Not sure who to believe on this one.

Reconnecting the Grid

Along with the proposed Mercer Fix, we'd be connected to our friends in Lower Queen Anne / Uptown. Under Licata's '99 plan, Aurora would continue to keep us apart :(

There are some misconceptions that reconnecting the two long lost neighborhoods would require a lowered Aurora which would cost another $200M. This is not the case. The plan is moving forward under a surface-level intersection option on some of the smaller east-west arterials. This would require anywhere from 8 to 18 lights on Aurora, which has the truckers up in arms.

Economic Development

Licata admitted the two-way Mercer along with the more narrow Valley would yield more economic benefits to the area than any other alternative. The area that would benefit most is the three-block area between Valley and Mercer, and Fairview and Westlake.

The obvious question & answer followed—Q: Who owns that property? A: Paul Allen.

What's currently on those three blocks? A couple marine stores, a couple gas stations, a junkyard and some dilapidated office buildings. Sounds like it's in need of economic development. What's the difference if Allen makes some more coin.

Pedestrian -Safety and -Friendliness

Licata says crossing the two-way, six lane Mercer would make for some 'critical crossings'. Nevermind the design proposal clearly demarcating crosswalks by paving them in brick, or that there will be a tree-lined island.

Measuring pedestrian impact based on the number of lanes someone walking to Lake Union Park would have to cross going north, Licata says the Mercer Fix and the '99 plan is a wash.

The hole in this argument is that Mercer stays as is, and Valley becomes even wider. This seems much more vehicle-friendly than pedestrian-friendly.

The '99 plan had a pedestrian bridge over a widened Valley Street to Lake Union Park. A pedestrian bridge doesn't really inspire a walkable neighborhood type of feel. I've never heard of people funneling through a bridge over a bunch of speeding cars to get to their favorite sidewalk cafe.

In contrast, the Mercer Fix would narrow Valley Street and add wide sidewalks to Valley and Mercer.

Other things the Mercer Fix has going for it in this area are the proposed bike lanes running both ways on Mercer and Valley. Connecting the grid (see section above) also benefits pedestrians/cyclists tremendously, even Licata admitted this was so.

The End! Almost.

The Mercer Fix already passed through the City Council 8-1 (guess who the dissenter was) with a yellow light. Nickels wants to breakground in Q2 2009. Once construction starts, the debate virtually ends. Up until that point, Licata is hellbent on stopping the project. In the next few weeks he will join efforts with the commuter community groups to present to the city their proposed use of the funds in other parts of the city.

I'll leave you with a thought Licata passed on to those attending the CNC meeting:

When talking to the consultant the city hired to design the Mercer Fix, the consultant told Licata the purpose of the design was to let people know they've entered the city once they get off I-5 – that South Lake Union is more than just peripheral scenery flashing by on their way to and from work.

That is the key distinction between Licata's '99 plan and the proposed two-way Mercer. One is a concession to the single occupant commuter, the other is a benefit to the city.

Opposition Mounts Against Mercer Fix

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 23:43:00 +0000

Seattle City Councilmember Nick Licata isn't the only one making a fuss about the Mercer Fix.

Three neighborhood organizations have stated their opposition: the Queen Anne Community Council, the Magnolia Community Club and the Fremont Chamber of Commerce. Notice that Mercer Street is not in any of the neighborhoods these organizations represent (Queen Anne Community Council is not to be confused with the Uptown Alliance).

"It's a for-the-look-of-it project for (South Lake Union developer) Vulcan. I'm all for Vulcan but the truth is it ain't about looks, it's about how we move," said Fremont Chamber's Suzie Berke.

Forget about making the city walkable or livable, I want to get home four minutes sooner! For more of this attitude, read the rest of the article on the P-I. Or better yet, come to tonight's Cascade Neighborhood Council meeting with Nick Licata.

SLUcard: Take Two

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 00:06:00 +0000

It looks like someone beat Vulcan to the punch. NWsource, a Seattle Times jam, is distributing Neighborhood Deals Cards for various Seattle neighborhoods, including Eastlake / South Lake Union.

What kind of deals will the lucky cardholders receive?

Paddy Coyne's Irish Pub: 10% off your guest check

Southlake Grill: Enjoy one complimentary entrée when a second entrée of equal or greater value is purchased

Snowboard Connection: 10% off all skate shoes 10% off all complete longboards. 15% off all men's and women's streetwear. $25 1 Day surf rental (board, wetsuit, booties)

Slo Joe's Backyard BBQ: Lunch - Buy any BBQ sandwich & receive a free combo (small side & drink). Dinner - $5 off a three piece dinner combo (feeds 3) OR $10 off a family feast dinner combo (feeds 4)

Unfortunately, The Seattle Times Company is wise to those who might try to use the NWsource card AND the Vulcan Card to get South Lake Union goods for pennies on the dollar: "NWsource Neighborhood Deals may not be combined with any other promotional offer." Drat.

The Seattle Times Company

Neighborhood: Fairview

The Seattle Times Company is a 111-year-old locally owned, private and independent news and information company...
Learn More

Information provided by the South Lake Union Wiki

Vulcan Real Estate

Founder: Paul G. Allen
VP Real Estate: Ada Healey

Vulcan Real Estate directs all real estate activities for Vulcan Inc., a Paul G. Allen company...
Learn More

Information provided by the South Lake Union Wiki

City Council Curmudgeon Nick Licata at CNC Meeting

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 00:07:00 +0000

City Councilmember Nick Licata will be at next week's Cascade Neighborhood Council meeting.

Mr. Licata has some interesting stances on a few important issues facing South Lake Union right now: First, he was the only councilmember to vote against the Mercer Corridor Project. Second, he's against the Streetcar's expansion. But, he is for pedestrian safety. So it will be interesting to hear his perspective on these issues, and maybe set him straight.

Also presenting is Noel Franklin, newly elected SLUFAN board member and part of the United Indians of All Tribes Foundation, who will give an update on the proposed canoe center at Lake Union Park.

When:
6:00pm Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Where:
514 Minor Avenue North, on ground floor of the Kerner-Scott House

Cascade Neighborhood Council

President: Lloyd Douglas

The Cascade Neighborhood (CNC) is a nonprofit corporation organized for the purpose of preserving and improving the Cascade neighborhood in South Lake Union...
Learn More

Information provided by the South Lake Union Wiki

Groundbreaking Ceremony for Cascade Senior Housing

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 04:28:00 +0000

Cascade Senior Housing, 50 units of green and affordable senior housing units in South Lake Union's Cascade neighborhood, will be having a groundbreaking ceremony Thursday July 17, 10:00am at Minor and Republican.

Come celebrate with Seattle Councilmember Jan Drago, Doris Koo of Enterprise, Adrienne Quinn of Seattle’s Office of Housing, Renee Greenman of HUD and others! Cascade Senior Housing will feature 50 units for seniors in Seattle’s South Lake Union neighborhood.

Cascade Senior Housing is funded through an innovative approach of combining HUD 202 senior housing funds with 9% tax credits. The building will be built to green standards and will feature a green roof. The rooftop will provide open space, a p-patch for residents, and a spot to enjoy the breathtaking views of South Lake Union. LIHI is delighted to provide affordable senior housing in one of the most attractive, livable, and walk-able neighborhoods in Seattle.

Cascade Senior Housing

Developer: Enterprise Communities
Architect: Runberg Architecture Group
Contractor: Synergy Construction

Cascade Senior Housing will feature 50 units for seniors in Seattle's South Lake Union neighborhood...
Learn More

Information provided by the South Lake Union Wiki

Reason #72 Why The Seattle Streetcar Should Expand

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 02:18:00 +0000

To get a job as a King County Metro bus driver you must prove you have reliable transportation...

King County Metro does not qualify as reliable transportation.

Catch the trolley debate on a KUOW 94.9 FM podcast:

Guests

Ethan Malone is the streetcar program manager for the Department of Transportation.
Don Clifton is a co/owner and CEO of S.L.U.T. Apparel.
Jan Drago is the chair of the Transportation Committee on Seattle City Council.
Bob Anderton represents 5 cyclists who have filed claim against the city after bicycle accidents involving the SLUT.

July 4th Weekend in South Lake Union

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 01:45:00 +0000

4th of July 2008 by Jonathan Hanlon

The Southlake had a great Fourth, and, by the looks of it, we weren't the only ones!

Check out the South Lake Union Pool for photos from the Wooden Boat Festival and WaMu Family 4th.

BYOB: Bring Your Own Books

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 00:56:00 +0000

Inner Chapters Bookstore & Cafe, South Lake Union's first bookstore due to open any day now, needs a very important raw material: BOOKS!

They are "especially desperate for children's and young adult books". So if you'd like to help a local small business get off the ground, give the number(s) on the sign a call.

Party Time in South Lake Union

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 03:09:00 +0000

There's no shortage of opportunities to get outside and enjoy the weather in South Lake Union this summer.

It all starts with the Lake Union Wooden Boat Festival starting July 4th running through the 6th, where young and old flock for toy boat building, sailing model boats on the pond, boat rides and races, picnicking, clambering over boats big and small, festive food and music, and general joy.

On July 17th, Seattle Great City Initiative hosts the Summer Street Scene Party at SLU Discovery Center – a celebration with food, drink, music and a "street transformation".

August 5th, Cascade People's Center is throwing a block party in honor of National Night Out with live music and a barbecue. They are looking to gather school supplies for local children, so bring some (especially backpacks)!

Three days later, August 8th, Vulcan invites you to a full day of outdoor fun at the 4th annual South Lake Union Block Party. There will be music, a movie (Juno!), food, and even activities for your dog.

McKay Block: Early Design Guidance

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 06:44:00 +0000

Early design guidance begins tomorrow for 601 Westlake Ave N, the site of the McKay buildings and Vulcan's proposed 6-story office building.

nbbj

As reported two weeks ago, the design proposal (pdf) states that the interior showroom of the Pacific McKay Building and the terra cotta clad facades of the Pacific and Ford McKay Buildings will be removed and reconstructed approximately 70 feet to the north of their current locations as part of the full block project.

nbbj

The preferred alternative architect NBBJ is putting forward consists of two connected buildings around a public open space directly behind the relocated Pacific McKay Building. The green space will be separated from the two-way Mercer Street by a new screen wall "that recalls the former Pacific McKay garage facade".

The building will provide 225,000 sq ft of office space, below-grade parking, and be built to LEED Gold standards.

No final word on what use the Pacific and Ford McKay Buildings will take on, but it has been speculated that they will act as either the office lobby, retail, or restaurant space.

The review meeting will be held at 6:30pm in the Queen Anne Community Center.

Why Flex Scooter when you can Bike Share?

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 02:02:00 +0000

Fresh off the heels of the Flex Scooter pilot comes the Bike Share Symposium. As long as a group of cyclist protesters doesn't storm the Group Health Cooperative, South Lake Union will become a pilot for a city- and county-wide bike share program.

King County is holding the symposium to help decide if a bike share program is needed and/or wanted in our neighborhood. It will be the pilot for Seattle and King County.

Your input is needed!

This Symposium will bring together leaders in the transportation, urban planning and business communities to discuss what is being done today in other US cities and how best to tailor a bike share program for Seattle and King County.

Over the past few years, bike share programs have swept through Europe, becoming a critical part of the local transportation network. Today, cities throughout the United States are adapting the bike share concept to meet their growing mobility needs.

Space is limited, so please RSVP by July 3rd to beverly.nitz (at) kingcounty.gov. If you cannot participate, feel free to forward this invitation to another appropriate colleague in your organization.

Learn more about the Bike Share Initiative here

Questions? Contact Eileen Kadesh (King County Metro Transit) at 206-684-1600 or Pearson Cummings (King County Parks) at 206-263-6230.

DATE: Thursday, July 10th

TIME: 2:00-5:00pm

LOCATION: Group Health Cooperative, 320 Westlake (Map)

Would you make use of a Bike Share program? How about the flex scooter? Let us know on the South Lake Union Community site.

Flex Scooter!

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 03:41:00 +0000

Picked this up off the SLU Chamber newsletter, sounds pretty cool!

Scoot About is testing a scooter rental program similar to the Flexcar/Zipcar concept.

Owner, Susan Richardson is looking for a select number of business participants to test the concept during a 30 day period (July/August)*.

Short program description:
Scooters are made available to business members to run in-city errands and quick trips. Members would use a simple punch card to track time used at 1/2 hour increments.

Enrollment includes a scooter orientation and safety checklist. Pilot program rates are $5 per 1/2 hour and includes gas for the first 10 miles. Helmet and goggles are also provided.

Susan cites several major benefits:
- More parking choices
- Zero to low cost parking downtown
- Only a regular driver's license required
- Gas is included (up to 10 miles)

Larger businesses might also be able to add this to existing employee commute trip reduction programs. On-site scooter locations are also a possibility.

Scoot About aims to add a road worthy, all-electric scooter to their selection. It is a zero emissions scooter with a range of up to 25 miles.

Want to learn more or wish to participate? Contact Susan Richardson at (206) 407-3362, info@scootabout.biz.

*Bonus ride time will be provided to pilot program participants.

Sidewalk Cafes: Go Forth and Multiply

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 04:40:00 +0000

Nickels sent a proposal to the City Council this afternoon to make the permitting process less bureaucratic and less expensive for sidewalk cafes. Under the proposal, would-be cafes apply for a permit through one city department instead of two, pay just $600 instead of $2,300 (for 100 sq ft), and get a permit in 10 days. More on SeattleScape.

I don't know of any South Lake Union-domiciled sidewalk cafes in the true sense. Southlake Grill, Blue Moon Burgers and Vivace have a few tables outside–did they have to jump through hoops to get them?

Let us hope that sidewalk cafes proliferate following the implementation of Nickels' plan and the Mercer Fix!

Summer Time in SLU

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 17:56:00 +0000

Seattle Times Building, by gabi campanario

It's official, summer is here! How are you celebrating?

Propel Biofuel Opening Later this Month

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 05:15:00 +0000

I don't think Propel will mind me copying their blog post on what could be the coolest gas station ever.

Offering clean fuels to Washington’s busiest economic center, Propel is opening downtown’s first renewable fuel station, scheduled to open in June. The 9,000-square-foot biodiesel station resides on Westlake and Valley in Seattle’s South Lake Union neighborhood.

Propel’s South Lake Union station is environmentally sensitive in design, construction and operation.

1. Canopy and Cistern

The station’s canopy is designed to conserve water and reduce storm runoff into Lake Union. Rainwater is collected in a cistern neatly integrated into the canopy’s western column. This cistern provides a water source for foliage, while irrigating the feedstock planters with excess water via an underground pipe. In addition, the station’s canopy was constructed utilizing aluminum composite derived from 95% recycled materials. The canopy is also equipped with energy conserving LED lights with photocells that provide illumination only as needed.

2. Landscape Green Roof Technology

The station’s garden landscape uses resource-conserving green roof technology to collect excess water from the canopy and cistern. Constructed with 100% recycled materials, the system actively stores water irrigating the landscape as needed and reducing dependence on the city’s water supply. Collecting and filtering water with green roof technology helps prevent the spread of particulates into Seattle’s groundwater and into Lake Union. The resulting runoff is clean filtered water.

3. Feedstock Planters

These unique feedstock planters grow plants used in the domestic production of biodiesel. The clean fuel is derived from renewable resources like camelina, sunflower, soy and canola, examples of which can be found in the planters. Biodiesel is also produced from waste products including recycled restaurant grease and animal fats. Biodiesel is refined to be used any diesel vehicle with no conversion necessary.

4. Clean Fuel

Two 5,000 gallon above ground tanks are constructed with the highest safety and environmental standards. Utilizing state-of-the-art leak detection the double-wall tanks self contain potential spills. To guarantee a safe fueling environment the tanks are impact and ballistics proof, with advanced break away shut-off & emergency shut-off.

Want to check it out? They're holding an open house June 27 11:30am - 3:00pm with fare provided by Skillet Street Food. Meet the Propel team, learn more about alternative fuels, and check out Seattle’s most sustainable fuel station.

Farmers Market Update

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 03:49:00 +0000

As promised, the Cascade Neighborhood Council provided an update on the progress towards a South Lake Union Farmers Market at their latest meeting.

Thanks to the efforts of the Cascade People's Center in the past two years, much of the groundwork has been laid. Here's where things currently stand:

They've decided upon a village market format, with local (this side of the mountains) producers of food (preferably organic) and crafts.
Sites and management options are still being investigated.
A letter soliciting donations will be drafted later this month, presumably distributed shortly thereafter.
The way things are going, we should have a farmers market in South Lake Union by next Spring!

New Denny Triangle Branding

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 03:11:00 +0000

Which comes first: A cool neighborhood vibe, or a cool neighborhood brand? In the case of Denny Triangle, it seems to be the latter.

Take Your Dog to Work Day

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:30:00 +0000

Friday is "Take Your Dog to Work Day", and Vulcan is celebrating by inviting the Seattle Humane Society’s “MaxMobile” pet adoption unit to the South Lake Union Discovery Center. MaxMobile will be filled with dogs, cats, guinea pigs and rabbits, all available for on-the-spot adoption.

Leading up to the event, pet food donations to benefit the Seattle Humane Society’s Pet Food Bank are being collected throughout this week at various locations around South Lake Union.

WHEN:

Friday, June 20 from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Pet food donations will be collected during the week leading up to the event, from June 16 to June 20.

WHERE:

South Lake Union Discovery Center

101 Westlake Avenue N. and Denny Way

Pet food donations will be accepted at locations around South Lake Union, including the Discovery Center, Scraps Dog Bakery, Urban Beast and Whole Foods Market at 2200.

P.S. The dog in the photo above has been decapitated (don't worry, it's the one made out of metal). Who would do such a thing?

Cheslahud Lake Union Loop Open House

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 05:16:00 +0000

Seattle Parks and Recreation is holding an open house for the newly christened Cheslahud Lake Union Loop Tuesday at the Naval Reserve Building from 4:00pm to 7:00pm. Check out the South Lake Union Community site for more details!

Seattle Parks and Recreation invites you to an open house to talk about the Cheslahud Lake Union Loop Master Plan. The purpose of the loop is to enable citizens and visitors to enjoy the unique character and history of the neighborhoods that surround Lake Union, and to enjoy a unique recreational experience. At the open house, the public can meet City staff members and the City’s consultant team; hear about issues and opportunities around the Lake; and offer observations about the loop. While the loop exists today, Parks will undertake a Master Plan to ensure the loop is easily accessible for a variety of pedestrians and recreational cyclists.

Encouraging the Arts in SLU

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 02:49:00 +0000

The South Lake Union Chamber of Commerce is hosting a panel discussion on Encouraging Arts and Culture in South Lake Union Tuesday.

The four panelists include:

1. Michael Killoren, City of Seattle: Executive Director for Arts and Cultural Affairs
2. Rob Hyman, 911 Media Arts Center: Communications Director (owner Interplay, Inc)
3. Patricia Cameron, owner Patricia Cameron Gallery
4. Meike Kaan, Cornish College of the Arts: Director of Communications

They will kick things off with the question: "What is your vision for 'Arts and Culture' in South Lake Union? Please suggest 2 initiatives or programs that you think will help to support that vision."

When and Where:

DATE: Tuesday, June 17th
TIME: 11:30am to 1:00 pm
LOCATION: Moss Bay Events Center (Map), Near Blu Water Bistro

Register here

South Lake Union wins Sustainable Cities Award

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 02:23:00 +0000

Vulcan was selected as one of nine global winners of the inaugural Sustainable Cities Awards for their part in the redevelopment of South Lake Union. The awards, sponsored by the Urban Land Institute and the Financial Times, were announced today in conjunction with a conference on the subject in London.

The Sustainable Cities Awards honor global examples of ongoing programs that exhibit new ideas and perspectives for best practices in sustainable land use. The nine winners – representing both the public and private sectors – were selected from a field of 86 entries submitted from 15 countries.

“Because urban, pedestrian-friendly development is a key contributor to creating livable communities and combating climate change, Vulcan is doing its part to foster a transit-oriented, mixed-use neighborhood in South Lake Union,” said Ada M. Healey, vice president of real estate at Vulcan. “We’re honored to have our work recognized as a model for others around the globe to learn and adopt sustainability best practices.”

A cornerstone of Vulcan’s South Lake Union redevelopment efforts is to foster an entire neighborhood that embraces sustainability on all fronts – from buildings and parks to public transportation and green streetscapes. Vulcan is working with the City of Seattle to create one of the first certified green neighborhoods in the nation in South Lake Union, which has been accepted into the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED Neighborhood Development (ND) pilot program. The LEED ND program promotes the location and design of neighborhoods that reduce reliance on cars, provide convenient access to jobs and services by walking or public transit, and promote more efficient energy and water use.

Three out of the nine award winners were from Seattle with the Cascade Land Conservancy and Kennedy Associates also taking home a prize. Seattle itself was a finalist, credited for having the most LEED-certified buildings in the country.

Click here to hear more about the winners.

Cascade Neighborhood Council Meeting on Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 17:49:00 +0000

Laura Curry, Mithun (right)

The Cascade Neighborhood Council has a meeting this Wednesday with special guest Laura Curry, from awesome architecture/design/planning firm Mithun.

Laura is Creative Director or Research & Consumer Insight for Mithun, a very cool job from the sounds of it:

Laura is the creator of CulturalAudit™, a methodology of documentation and rigor that is quickly gaining industry recognition for its effective use of interview, survey, and in-depth market analysis to provide a contextual community “snapshot.” Laura's participation in a project's development, from pre-design through post occupancy, results in work that is market-driven and responsive to community needs. Her research opens a window into a neighborhood's unique DNA - its heritage, culture, demographics, and trends - to aid clients in identifying a project's potential and enhancing the end-user experience. Laura's ultimate goal though the CulturalAudit™ process is to ensure dynamic, successful client / community integration both now and in the future through insight into heritage and culture that ultimately guides sustainable growth.

There will also be an update on where the SLUFAN zoning proposals stand with the City, and the results of the recent SLUFAN election. And something I'm really excited to hear about – an update on plans for a Farmers Market.

Where and when:

6:00 pm Wednesday, June 18, 2008
514 Minor Avenue North, on ground floor of the Kerner-Scott House
RSVP Please: cncsecretary@hotmail.com

Vulcan Unveils Plans for Lake Union Auto Showrooms

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 17:38:00 +0000

Vulcan went before the Landmark Preservation Board on Friday to present their plans for moving the Ford and Pacific McKay Buildings.

At this preliminary stage, Vulcan is pushing to dismantle the buildings and store certain historic elements for later use in a six-story office building.

The buildings' terra cotta facades would be restored as would the Pacific showroom's interior—complete with vaulted ceiling, tile fountain, and twin staircases—to be used as either the building's lobby, or retail or restaurant space.

See the Seattle Times for more.

SLUcard

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 01:06:00 +0000

Vulcan Real Estate has the most wide-ranging marketing machine I've ever seen for a real estate company. Then again, it's not every developer that owns enough property to hit critical mass in a particular neighborhood.

What are they up to now?

Vulcan Real Estate is producing customer loyalty cards that offer discounts and other business promotions to card holders.

Who gets the card? Condominium owners, apartment dwellers and employees at businesses located in Vulcan Real Estate properties. Estimated to be over 7,500 cards.

They're not out quite yet. Stay tuned for more.