Everyone has thoughts about what the Downtown Seattle Waterfront should look like one the Alaska Way Viaduct is demolished. Many people, from businesses to developers have been excited about the fantastic views that are going to open up. But guess what? It's going to cost you! That's right, the City of Seattle plans on taxing virtually any property owner or business that will receive (as the City defines) a “Special benefit”
The City of Seattle's Office of the Waterfront has been working closely with civic leaders, stakeholders and the broader Seattle public to create a “Waterfront for All.” They have developed an online tool that will give you an idea of the “Special benefit” a property owner will receive as a result of the viaduct demolition, tunnel being built, and the “Waterfront for All” development. This will also give you a “Preliminary assessment” to be formalized by the LID (Local Improvement District) at a later date.
This idea isn't new and had been discussed back in 2012 when the tunnel project began. So it doesn't come as much surprise to those who have been watching this development unfold. And the truth is this project will be a massive addition to downtown Seattle's attractiveness and amenities, and therefore future property values.