News of Madison Valley

Since 2013, parklets have been transforming the streets of Seattle, by creating vibrant community amenities and neighborhood gathering spaces for all people to enjoy. In early 2015, SDOT expanded the idea of parklets by developing the Streatery Pilot Program, allowing restaurants and bars to build parklets that provide extra café seating space during business hours and public open space when businesses are closed. Last month, Some Random Bar—located at 2604 1st Ave in Belltown—became Seattle’s second business to host a streatery, joining the ranks of one other streatery in Capitol Hill and seven parklets in operation throughout the city. The Some Random Bar streatery features seating, planters, and tables, giving Belltown a new, attractive amenity for the 1st Ave commercial core.

The streatery at Some Random Bar in Belltown

In hopes of including more businesses and community groups in the parklet and streatery programs across the city, SDOT is now accepting applications on a rolling basis, rather than restricting them to designated application windows. Interested groups are encouraged to submit applications during the fall and early winter to allow enough time to design, permit, and construct their spaces by the spring to take advantage of Seattle’s scarce sunny weather.  Interested in building a parklet or streatery for your neighborhood? All the information you need on how to apply can be found on our website.

Recognizing that the cost of designing and building a parklet might be out of reach for some businesses and community groups, we’re is working to connect prospective parklet and streatery hosts with funding opportunities and volunteer partnerships. As part of this effort, we’ve compiled a roster of local design firms that are eager to provide pro bono or reduced cost services to help bring parklet and streatery ideas to life. SDOT’s parklet web page has more information on these firms and their services.

If you have any questions or comments about starting a parklet or streatery, feel free to contact us.

[email protected]
206-615-1028
seattle.gov/transportation/parklets.htm