A pilot program to put vacant and underused lots to better use by allowing a variety of interim “active uses” and short term parking on certain lots was passed by City Council in late March. Council Bill 117046 is one of two legislation items (see related story) that promotes economic relief due to stalled development and that encourages ridership on the Link light rail system.
Highlights of the pilot program include:
- Sites in Downtown, Seattle Mixed, Highrise, Industrial, and Commercial Zones are eligible, except landmark and special review districts
- Up to 20 permits for sites with active uses (mobile food vending, retail uses in temporary structures, outdoor cinema, art displays, and horticulture uses, among others) would have a term of three years, renewable for a second three-year term
- Active uses would be required adjacent to the street lot lines of any parking permitted under the pilot program
- Customer parking (short term only) would be permitted for a term of three years without renewal, on lots where development is stalled and meeting specific conditions
- The DPD director would have discretionary authority to adjust certain standards and to approve active uses not listed in the code that are similar and meet the intent to provide for interesting and active streetscapes
The results of the pilot program will be evaluated to inform future possible Code amendments for permanent provisions for active uses.
For more information, visit our website www.seattle.gov/dpd/Planning/VacantUnderusedLot/Overview/default.asp, or contact:
Bill Mills
(206) 684-8738
william.mills@seattle.gov