Spark Block Lights Up Third Avenue

New lights along Third Avenue have sparked a festive feeling and brightened a critical downtown corridor. Earlier this month, DSA member Clise Properties worked with partner agencies to string new lighting above Third Avenue between Stewart and Virginia streets. The lighting complements the new public art installed along that corridor — part of the 36 murals that are being produced throughout downtown.

A component of Mayor Harrell’s Downtown Activation Plan, the lights and mural projects represent a close partnership between DSA, the city, King County Metro, Sound Transit, neighborhood business owners and tenants, ULI Northwest and other community partners and stakeholders.

MID Ratepayer Advisory Board Chair Sabrina Villanueva was a catalyst for the project.

“It looks beautiful,” Villanueva told KOMO News. “It also makes people feel safe. The illumination deters the negative behavior that happens on the street.

“With the mayor’s Downtown Activation Plan and the World Cup coming in a couple of years, we felt like it was a great opportunity to strike now.”

The Seattle Department of Transportation said it expects the new lighting may spark interest from nearby building owners and tenants who wish to pursue similar enhancements.

“The rapid improvement in the streetscape of the Spark Block shows what’s possible when neighborhood organizations, downtown artists, city staff and property managers act together under a co-created vision,” said Seth Geiser, DSA manager of urban planning & design. “We hope that the changes on this block will build momentum and inspire similar collaborations across our downtown neighborhoods.”

If you’re interested in taking a walking tour of the murals, SDOT created a video, map and sidewalk decal online to help you find your way.