Sodo Business Improvement Area

Engage SODO: Increase communication and interaction within SODO so that the BIA most effectively represents the interests and executes the priorities of SODO BIA Business and property owners. Leverage influence and investments to improve the conditions of the district for commerce to thrive in SODO. In 2024, we sent out monthly newsletters and information about upcoming events to SODO stakeholders and managed a robust social media program promoting SODO businesses. We hosted our first National Night Out event at Starbucks HQ with partners from the Seattle Police and Fire Departments. We hosted quarterly networking events this year at venues across SODO, with an attendance of over 200 people. (Continued on Schedule O)We conducted SODO stakeholder engagement research to gather insight on SODO BIA's communications and developed the initial outline of a strategic communications plan.

Move SODO: We engaged with SODO stakeholders and agency partners on a variety of subjects, including businesses and freight, parking issues, stadium events, and large-scale infrastructure projects. We continued to work with SDOT's Vision Zero team and King County Metro to make various safety improvements to SDOT's Georgetown to Downtown Safety project. We also continued to advocate with Sound Transit and other agency partners to improve their engagement, refine plans and reduce impacts related to the project in SODO. We finalized design and secured funding for the proposed Pocket Park on Industrial Way, a key part of the SODO Greenspace Plan. Coordinated parking updates on SODO roadways in partnership with local business and the Seattle Department of transportation. (Continued on Schedule O)Worked with adjacent business to propose safety improvements along Airport Way S that still allow local access.

Economic SODO: In 2024 we completed the SODO Economic and Policy Analysis Report with Evans School Consulting Lab. Partnered with the FIFA Local Organizing Committee to host information sessions with SODO Stakeholders to prepare for the World Cup in 2026. Provided grants to businesses impacted by vandalism and graffiti through the Storefront Improvement Fund. Entered into a Fiscal Sponsorship contract to administer funds for the newly created Manufacturing Maritime Industrial Association, a stewardship organization dedicated to strengthening Seattle's maritime, manufacturing, logistics and industrial sectors.