Many large businesses have closed or are in the process of closing their downtown Seattle operations, including the Nike store. Other companies such as Facebook, Microsoft, and Amazon are actively vacating their office spaces. The departures are directly contributing to a decline in foot traffic and the bustling presence of shoppers and restaurant goers. But there is some good news.
With the Seattle Convention Center expansion officially opening yesterday, there is renewed hope for an increased number of events that will bring an infusion of dollars to the downtown area and its businesses.
The expansion is 14 stories high and has ten football fields worth of added square footage, totaling over a half-million square feet. Half of the first floor will have restaurants and retail shops.
