Project Summary

Pinnacle Plus hoped to construct a new high-rise residential tower in the heart of downtown Seattle. When brand new requirements were integrated into the land use design review process, Nyhus was brought on to facilitate a conversation between developers and the community’s neighbors.

Challenge

The City of Seattle recently conducted a complete overhaul of the 20-year old Design Review process to include – among other substantive changes – mandatory community outreach for projects. This project was the second in the City to be subjected to the new program requirements. Without past examples or clear guidelines to base outreach efforts off of, Nyhus worked closely with the Department of Neighborhoods to clarify expectations and ensure compliance with all requirements.

Results

• Hosted an informational community meeting to present proposed building details and garner neighborhood feedback on the project, including securing the venue and catering and coordinating day-of logistics.
• Developed a microsite to showcase the development project and provide community meeting details.
• Designed and distributed mailers to all residents within a four-block radius of the project’s location.
• Prepared and submitted mandatory outreach documentation which received approval from the Department of Neighborhoods, including a summary of public comments from both the community meeting and microsite.