Corner Stores – GSBA Initiative to Expand Allowances throughout Seattle

Who Doesn’t Love Volunteer Park Cafe?

Building on the excitement from the Great Ideas Fest, the GSBA has something to share that you might find interesting.

Seattle is home to creative entrepreneurs and diverse communities—but the rising costs of starting a business are holding many back. Corner stores can be a game-changer.

These neighborhood hubs:

✔️ Connect local artists and micro-entrepreneurs with their communities
✔️ Foster safer, friendlier streets
✔️ Provide access to fresh foods and specialty cultural goods

Currently, they’re only permitted on corner lots. We’re advocating for corner stores citywide to unlock their full potential across all neighborhoods. Sign the petition to support this vital change: https://bit.ly/3EtayEM

KUOW even had a podcast about similar efforts at the state level (Seattle could return to the days of neighborhood cafes). House Bill 1175 would allow stores in more parts of the state. Check House Bill 1175’s progress and read the bill here. Update: House Bill 1175 didn’t pass a key deadline (House of Origin Cutoff) and is dead for this session.