Restore Paradise and tear down a parking lot: First Hill’s green make over and how it helps you!

It’s always been a bit ugly—while it’s a wonderfully convenient area of Seattle, First Hill has never really been a “destination” or a pretty place to hang out in. Well, all of that is in the process of changing thanks to Seattle’s First Hill Public Realm Action Plan.

First launched in 2015, this project has many components, and it is all about “connecting parks and public space to enhance mobility and liability in First Hill.”

If you’ve been in the neighborhood lately, then you might have noticed some new little micro parks popping up along the sidewalks. First Hill is currently characterized in part by its many narrow car-lined streets, but now in place of many parking spaces, we’re seeing micro parks with lovely grass, greenery, and benches. With these new pedestrian-friendly additions, we’ll find more people hanging out and spending time in the area.

This is not only a big deal for the neighborhood’s general appeal, but it’s a big deal for the local real estate. The micro parks and public spaces that are being built are the types of improvements that add tons of value to a neighborhood.

Now just might be the right time to buy in First Hill as we anticipate these changes coming to fruition. (And a lot of people out there aren’t aware of the improvements!) Not only will residences be able to take advantage of these welcoming green areas, but you’re also surrounded by city conveniences. Bus lines go directly downtown, you have easy I-5 access, and Capitol Hill is right at your fingertips.

Seattle has a comprehensive PDF that outlines the First Hill Public Realm Action Plan—it’s filled with digestible information, from colorful maps and examples of the improvements you can expect. We highly recommend taking a look!

Would you like to learn more about living in Seattle’s First Hill neighborhood?

Get in touch with any questions here!