To champion a healthy, vibrant urban core

Since DSA was founded in 1958, we have been a leader in the revitalization and development of Downtown into a thriving, world-class destination and business center. Successful leadership and partnerships have earned DSA its reputation as an expert on issues facing Downtown. The strength of our advocacy programs is driven by the work and support of distinguished volunteers who lend their expertise to the achievement of our mission to champion a healthy, vibrant urban core.

The Downtown Seattle Association is working on these key areas
that impact Downtown:

• Lead the effort to implement zoning changes in Downtown
• Advocate to replace the Viaduct with a tunnel
• Improve public safety in Downtown
• Advocate for a strong good neighbor agreement for the new homeless services center
• Take a leadership role in the Central Waterfront Planning process
• Work with Sound Transit and Downtown constituents on Transit Tunnel construction mitigation
• Support growth across Downtown by working with the City and Metro to increase transportation access, options and products with the Urban Mobility Group
• Participate in a new Downtown-wide parks organization and implement management plan

Most recently, DSA committees have successfully accomplished the following:

• Advocated to the City to select the six lane tunnel replacement for the viaduct
• Lobbied the state for a transportation package that includes viaduct funding
• Lobbied the Mayor for building zoning code changes to attract more housing and jobs
• Produced the Holiday Wonderland featuring the carousel at Westlake Park, and Nutcracker March public art project
• Encouraged the City to secure funding for a new Downtown homeless service center
• Developed and implemented a marketing and communications plan to promote Downtown during the bus tunnel closure.