There is a new organization in town. It’s called Friends of Seattle, and it’s mission is…
Friends of Seattle envisions a city that grows substantially in the next fifty years, yet becomes an even better place to live. Seattle residents and local government act progressively to create a sustainable, healthy, and livable future for all who live here, while respecting our unique cultural, environmental, and architectural assets.
To achieve this future, Seattle can and should aspire to be a city of walkable neighborhoods, more affordable housing, an efficient transit network, a restored natural ecology, and more parks and public gathering spaces, all while taking responsibility for its impact on the environment.
Pretty basic stuff, right? Seattle has a rap of being a progressive city, right?
Lets look at the facts.
Certain state and city leaders are pushing for a rebuilt Alaskan Way Viaduct. That’s a new freeway through the heart of “Let’s Reduce Greenhouse Gases” Seattle. Not too progressive, I’d say.
Old Seattle is fighting housing density tooth and nail. Single family housing, by far the largest zoning designation in the city, is sacrosanct. Have you tried to buy a townhouse in Seattle? Not too many of them, and their all as expensive as a single family house. Buying condos outside the downtown core? Good luck with that, too. “Progressive” Seattle takes another hit.
What about transportation in Seattle? We have to be ahead of the times here, right? Not so much. There’s no push to expand the currently-under-construction Seattle Streetcar on Lake Union. What’s more, city leaders are fussing over a novelty streetcar that carries tourists. Progressive points get knocked off here, too.
There are so many more places where “progressive” Seattle needs a kick in the ass, and Friends of Seattle is the organization to give it to them. Their launch party is this Tuesday, and I’ll be there.
The event is free, but a $10 dollar donation gets you membership in FoS and includes an exciting free FoS cocktail.
Location: Twist Restaurant & Lounge
2313 First Ave (First Avenue and Bell Street)