Uncategorized June 27, 2012

Urban Growth v. Urban Sprawl

Interesting chatter about the proposed zoning changes in South Lake Union. While some will argue this point, I'll say that the Seattle area is _relatively_ rich in open space. The human population is growing and many of them are moving to Seattle to enjoy this amazing natural setting, a healthy culture, business opportunities, etc. While I don't love it when my view is blocked (it has been and will be again soon) I think it is important that we consider that we can't have both an unchanging skyline and urban growth rules that limit sprawl into the mountains. The people need to go somewhere. This plan has developers trading development rights in outlying areas for in-city rights. Here's something to consider from Mayor McGinn's press release:  "This proposal will help that growth continue in ways that bring significant public benefits. Along with new jobs and new homes, we can build a mixed use community that leverages growth to create affordable housing and finance the improvements needed to streets and public spaces." http://seattle.gov/mayor/press/newsdetail.asp?ID=12881

Uncategorized May 10, 2012

What does Amazon mean to Seattle (and housing costs)?

There are many opinions bantered about on the impact of Amazon in Seattle. It often comes up in the context of the developer community justifying the price of new construction condos, or the thousands of close-in new apartment units under construction. Residential neighborhoods, from Queen Anne to Cap Hill to Ballard, are also abuzz with the subject of rising prices/values due to the Amazon effect. This doesn’t deal as much with the value equation as I’d like, but is a good article: http://www.xconomy.com/seattle/2012/05/09/amazon-takes-over-seattle/. What do you think?

Update:

Some renderings of Amazon’s office plans: http://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/blog/2012/05/new-renderings-showcase-amazon-campus.html?s=image_gallery