Hello Neighbors,

It is great to see so many people so passionately interested in the future of the Promenade 23 shopping center at 23rd and Jackson. The Colman Neighborhood Association would like to thank the 75-plus people who participated in an informational gathering last Wednesday, July 18, at the Douglass Truth Library.

It was exciting to see a coalition coming together representing such diverse backgrounds, occupations, ages and interests, but all committed to making sure the unique and historic character of this neighborhood is preserved in the probable redevelopment of the Promenade 23 shopping center. We would especially like to thank special guests, including Lance Sherwood from Weingarten Realty,  Lyle Bicknell from the Seattle Department of Planning and Development, Carl de Simas from the Jackson Corridor Business Association, George Staggers of the Central Area Development Association, Elena Perez of United Food and Commercial Workers Local 21, Eudora Carter from the Judkins Park Community Council, Stan Lock from the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods, State Representative and House Speaker Frank Chopp, the owners of Red Apple Markets and other business owners, and the representatives from Mount Baker and Jackson Place Community Councils.

This is just the beginning of the discussion, and we hope everyone will stay informed, get involved and spread the word.

 Grace Reamer, Meg Olsen and Knox Gardner, CNA