31 Jan Pioneer Square in the News

Owner neglected landmark Smith Tower, says receiver (Seattle Times)
Goodman’s report reveals, among other things, that the 98-year-old Smith Tower is even emptier than previously thought. It’s just 19 percent occupied, the receiver writes — and that’s only if you count the Chinese Room, rented out for weddings and parties, and the one-of-a-kind apartment on top of the tower. What’s more, Goodman adds, Pioneer Square offices are filling up fast, and little of what remains offers the tower’s views, charm or iconic status. “Smith Tower is being reintroduced to the leasing market at a prime time,” it says.

Why do Utilikilts appeal to many in the Northwest? (KPLU)
Whatever your feelings about them, they are part of the Northwest. The idea was born here. They’re manufactured here. They even have their own store in Seattle’s Pioneer Square Neighborhood. Why, then, are they so polarizing in their own hometown?

Homeless evicted from under Seattle viaduct (Seattle PI)
A two-block area near Pioneer Square was the latest to be swept Monday morning, but no one had to be physically removed. The homeless apparently heeded “no trespassing” signs posted Friday, said state transportation department spokeswoman KaDeena Yerkan.

State to homeless people: No more sleeping under the viaduct (Seattle PI)
But beginning Monday, the downtown dwellers of the Alaskan Way Viaduct will be gone. The state will begin sweeping away homeless people, as it expands its tunnel replacement construction a few blocks north to Yesler Way. The evictions are expected to grow through February, as construction moves to Spring Street in Seattle’s downtown core.

Hail to the chief: Sally Clark takes on new role as Seattle Council president (Seattle Times)
Clark largely got high marks for a similar rezone in Pioneer Square last year where McConachie, who serves on the Pioneer Square Preservation Board, said she found “edges and lots” that might be redeveloped without eroding the district’s historic character.