What is Seattle Center?
Seattle Center draws you in. Its vibrant pulse brings together people of all ages and walks of life to create thousands of extraordinary experiences that enrich millions of lives each year. Entertainment options abound – starting with 63 free and low cost public programs and over 5,000 shows and events annually. The 74-acre campus, with its 17 acres of open space, is welcoming to all – and is home to more than 30 cultural, educational, sports and entertainment organizations. This treasured urban gathering place exists to delight and inspire the human spirit in each person and bring our rich and varied community together. The 12 million visitors to Seattle Center each year generate $1.15 billion in business activity and $387 million in labor income for King County. For more information, visit seattlecenter.com.
I think it would be a mistake for Seattle Center to become a boring, passive park with arts and cultural amenities mostly on the edges. Taken to the extreme, the monorail would be dropping riders off in the middle of a grass field. Over the years, the Center has been called the nation’s best gathering place, and it remains at least one of the best. Even the best can be improved. But there is a difference between improving something and dramatically changing its mission. Brewster’s worst idea is to tear down Center House and perhaps send many of its functions to KeyArena, which the Sonics soon will vacate. Center House is simultaneously unattractive — and very well used. Tearing it down is absurd. The place has reasonably priced food and is used by numerous groups and families. It is centrally located and, as every Seattleite knows, it provides shelter from the storm. Mayor Greg Nickels’ 17-member committee offers three plans for the Center plus a do-nothing alternative. The panel is ri
