King County plans major overhaul of downtown civic campus

During a recent King County government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing Civic Campus Initiative aimed at revitalizing the county's downtown Seattle facilities. The initiative seeks to enhance safety and accessibility at the courthouse and surrounding areas, which have been described as underutilized and in need of significant repairs.

Jennifer Hills, Deputy Chief Operating Officer, provided an update on the initiative, emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming environment for residents facing civil or criminal issues. The county owns eight square blocks in downtown Seattle, which currently house key offices, courts, and correctional facilities. However, many of these buildings are not functioning as intended, with some areas operating more like a \"government dead zone.\"

The initiative, launched in 2018, has involved extensive community engagement, including a year-long visioning process that concluded recently. Feedback from community advisory groups highlighted priorities such as public safety, housing, and equitable economic development. The project aims to address these needs while also considering the impact of Sound Transit’s Ballard Link Extension project, which could affect current county operations.

A paired site strategy is being proposed, which would involve relocating certain functions, such as courts and correctional facilities, to a second site in the SoDo neighborhood. This approach is intended to leverage the larger space for contemporary facilities while freeing up downtown properties for potential redevelopment. The initiative envisions a vibrant courthouse district that integrates public amenities and housing, ultimately transforming the area into a more accessible and engaging environment.

The project team is currently working on developing a governance structure, funding strategies, and regulatory frameworks, with plans to return to the committee with a more detailed proposal in the future. The meeting underscored the county's commitment to modernizing its facilities and improving the overall experience for residents and visitors alike.