DPD has published a draft Urban Design Framework (UDF) for the Northgate Urban Center. The UDF lays out a general direction for the type of development the City would like to see in the area in the future and the types of public improvements that should accompany that development.
Archives for August 1, 2013
Unreinforced Masonry Retrofit Policy Update
DPD received draft recommendations from the Unreinforced Masonry (URM) Policy Committee in January 2013 for a mandatory seismic retrofit policy for URM buildings. The committee requested a cost-benefit analysis on alternatives. The purpose of the analysis is to provide information for final recommendations by the URM Policy Committee and to inform decisions by the Mayor and City Council on a mandatory retrofit program.
Construction Codes Advisory Board Recruiting Next Month
The Construction Codes Advisory Board has openings for new members. We will begin recruitment next month. There will be opportunities for both the general public and for professions interacting with the Department of Planning and Development.
Revised Date for Adoption of 2012 Codes
The City Council Energy and Environment Committee is tentatively scheduled to review the 2012 Seattle building, residential, existing building, mechanical, fuel gas, and plumbing codes on August 13. The Seattle Energy Code may be heard at a later meeting.
June Permit Turnaround Times
View our permit turnaround approval times for June 2013.
Launching the U District Environmental Impact Statement
In June, DPD and our community partners completed the U District Urban Design Framework (UDF). This document draws from a year of working group meetings and extensive public input. Our public engagement process has sought to balance interests in the community from a wide range of participants and perspectives.
Comprehensive Plan Annual Amendments
On July 29 City Council adopted a resolution identifying topics they want DPD to explore as possible amendments to the Comprehensive Plan, as part of the annual amendment cycle. Based on DPD’s analysis, the Mayor will make recommendations about these topics to the City Council in December. Council will hold a public hearing and vote on those recommendations in the first quarter of 2014.
Basketball Arena-Related Studies
In August DPD will issue two draft studies related to siting a basketball arena in the Duwamish Industrial area. These studies were specifically called for in the agreement among the City, King County, and the arena representatives.
Pioneer Square Amendments: A “Win-Win” for public Safety and Economic Vitality
The Mayor and DPD, in partnership with the Alliance for Pioneer Square, are proposing a change to the land use code that would be a “win-win” for Pioneer Square. If approved, the amendments will encourage a mixed-use development that will bring office workers, residents and tourists to a key location next to Occidental Square.
Planning Commission Announces New Analyst
The Seattle Planning Commission welcomes Jesseca Brand as their new policy analyst. Brand replaces Katie Sheehy, who has joined the DPD’s planning office.