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Mayor Harrell Statement on Opening of Convention Center

Seattle – Today, Mayor Bruce Harrell released the following statement:

“The new Summit building of the Seattle Convention Center represents a cornerstone of our vision for a revitalized and activated downtown Seattle. Adjacent to hotels, restaurants, and other attractions, the Summit is the perfect destination package to attract new visitors and enhance the lives of those who live and work here.

“This is a project that carries a legacy of public benefits and investments in our community, including affordable housing, public art, bicycle infrastructure, and a beautiful new space for residents and visitors to engage together. It has also created new opportunities for employment in hospitality and tourism as event attendees return to our city.

“Our downtown corridor is undergoing a metamorphosis following unprecedented change and challenge. But this is also a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine this neighborhood and align it with our bold vision for One Seattle.

“My team and I will be relentless in our efforts to build on the momentum of the Summit’s opening and create a downtown corridor we can all take pride in. We are currently preparing to host the MLB All-Star Game this year and the World Cup in 2026, major sporting events that will bring new visitors and energy to our city. Our waterfront is also undergoing a transformation, including the addition of a new aquarium.

“I remain optimistic for downtown’s future. It is the economic engine of our city, and I believe we can make it a beacon of opportunity, prosperity, culture, and community for our entire region.”

Public benefit statistics:

  • $40 million to address the affordable housing crisis
  • $16M in Bicycle Master Plan Funding for Pike/Pine and 8th Avenue
  • $10M in Freeway Park improvements
  • $1.85M in public benefit artworks
  • $800K in right of way improvements on 9th Avenue and Olive Way
  • 11,000 tulip and daffodil bulbs planted by volunteers

More building facts, features, and benefits can be found here.