To address the impacts of the new stadium and exhibition center on the surrounding neighborhoods, the South Downtown Foundation was formed in 1999. The Foundation provided leadership, partnerships, and facilitated coordination and collaboration between the three adjoining neighborhoods.

Since the spring of 2000, the South Downtown Foundation has supported over one hundred community projects utilizing the $6.1 million provided as part of the stadium and event center project. The projects have largely focused on marketing and public safety, which were the two highest priorities for all three neighborhoods. In March 2006, the South Downtown Foundation dissolved. The remaining funds are now an area of interest fund at The Seattle Foundation and will continue to support the areas of interest identified in the Neighborhood Action Agenda and by the General Policies of the South Downtown Foundation. Eligible organizations should follow the procedures of the Community Grantmaking Program. Information about this program can be found at www.seattlefoundation.org

For questions, please contact Ceil Erickson, Director, Community Grantmaking Program, at The Seattle Foundation. She can be reached at 206.515.2131 or Ceil@seattlefoundation.org.

Although the stadium and exhibition center have been built, new challenges and opportunities are certain to arise. The PSA, in partnership with First & Goal, continues its ongoing dialogue with the South Downtown neighborhoods through regular community meetings and ongoing mitigation program planning and reporting.