Public Spaces

Well-designed and maintained public spaces inspire us to get outside and enjoy the urban environment. With support from our partners, DSA implements a steady stream of events, art installations and improvement projects within downtown parks and other public spaces.

Each of these projects depends on active public-private collaboration. DSA coordinates closely with the Seattle Department of Parks and Recreation, the Alliance for Pioneer Square, Friends of the Waterfront Seattle, the Seattle Parks Foundation and many businesses to fund and execute downtown events and art installations.

Public Space & Art Projects

 To us, mundane public infrastructure is just an art installation or event away from becoming an interactive, people-friendly space. Our team works with downtown businesses, local government and other partners to bring life to downtown through a variety of both short- and longer-term public space improvement efforts. From painting crosswalks and hanging flower baskets to creating pocket parks and improving wayfinding, we’re making sure downtown is a great place to live, work, shop and play.

At DSA, we believe in the power of urban art to enhance downtown. A colorful mural can turn an otherwise drab cement wall into a beautiful canvas. A painted crosswalk can improve pedestrian safety and become a lively addition to a busy intersection. Below are a few samples of our public realm improvement projects.

Calls for Walls

Calling all building owners! DSA is looking for partners to help bring more art into downtown and create a richer urban experience. And the wall of your building might be the perfect canvas for our next colorful mural. If you are interested in vibrant neighborhood enhancements and know a wall that could use some pizzaz, contact us today.

Contact Us

 

 

Download Park Permit Application

Occidental Square

Westlake Park

Sign up for Parks Newsletter

Contact Info

General Park Info:

Michael Johnson, Director of Parks & Public Spaces
206-613-3902
michaelj@downtownseattle.org

Sponsorships:

Jennifer Casillas, VP, Public Realm & Ambassador Operations
206-613-3225
parks@downtownseattle.org

Art and Public Space Projects:

Seth Geiser, Manager, Urban Planning & Design
206-613-3916
sethg@downtownseattle.org

Park Rules

The Seattle Municipal Code prohibits:

  • Placing any structure or obstruction in the park without a permit
  • Dogs or other pets that are not leashed; person with dog must carry and use equipment for removing feces.
  • Sale of merchandise without a permit
  • Amplified sound without a permit.
  • Camping
  • Liquor (open or closed container)
  • Littering
  • Skateboarding, roller-skating
  • Illegal gambling
  • Urinating or defecating

Parks Code of Conduct (enforceable under SMC 18.12.040) prohibits:

  • Depriving others of their use or enjoyment of the park
  • No smoking
  • Unattended items
  • Creating a risk of harm to any person or property
  • Obstructing pedestrian traffic; interfering with the provision of services or the use of park property
  • Disrupting Parks and Recreation activities.
  • Abusive or harassing behavior