s jackson st
connections

Physical + Cultural Connections Between Historic Neighborhoods and the New Waterfront

With the major overhaul of Seattle’s waterfront, South Jackson Street will be a key link between several distinct neighborhoods and new amenities. South Jackson Street is the sole street that traverses the historic neighborhoods of Chinatown-International District, Little Saigon, Central District, and Pioneer Square.

The goal of this project was a community-based understanding of the physical and cultural connections along South Jackson Street, and a prioritized set of actions that will enhance both the neighborhoods and access to the waterfront. Framework teamed with the Wing Luke Museum, SCIDPDA (Seattle Chinatown International District Preservation and Development Authority), and client Historic South Downtown on a community-based process to identify shared priorities, concerns and opportunities to improve the physical and cultural connections along South Jackson Street.

The final report sets out a series of community driven recommendations to be used to advocate for strategic implementation of public realm improvements. Priority actions included the creation of small “pocket parks” in LIttle Saigon; improvements below Interstate 5; pedestrian improvements at the critical transportation hub including King Street Station and Union Station; and creation of a “story street” along Jackson that highlights the rich cultural history of the corridor.