Cultural Space Agencys mission Create and preserve arts venues in expensive Seattle (and even more expensive Capitol Hill)

Seattle has established a Public Development Authority (PDA) to create and preserve cultural spaces, particularly in the increasingly expensive Capitol Hill neighborhood. This initiative seeks to address the challenges faced by local arts organizations, such as the closure of Velocity Dance due to rising rents and the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. The Cultural Space Agency, in partnership with the PDA, aims to build community wealth and invest in historically marginalized communities, ensuring that cultural spaces are included in real estate developments. The city has allocated $1 million for the PDA's operating costs over the next two years, aspiring to secure additional investments from philanthropists. Mayor Jenny Durkan highlighted that the initiative is crucial for safeguarding the city's cultural identity and promoting equitable recovery.

The PDA's efforts could pave the way for community ownership and long-term solutions to gentrification. This marks the first new PDA in 40 years, indicating a significant shift in Seattle's approach to cultural preservation. By centering communities of color and emphasizing transparency and community engagement, the PDA aims to create a more equitable future for Seattle's arts scene.