In addition to providing housing and economic opportunities for people from multi-cultural and multi-income backgrounds, Yesler prioritized creating an inclusive community where people of different languages (more than 15 languages are spoken by residents in Yesler), incomes, cultures and ages feel welcome, respected and valued.

One of the ways we hope to achieve this goal is through the building design and amenities Vulcan has built into Batik including ground level apartments that have neighborhood stoops, retail that spills out onto a generous plaza, and a community kitchen that connects to a pedestrian pathway.  The community kitchen will be an ideal space for residents to share pot-luck meals and pop-up dinners with neighbors, or learn how to partake in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony.

Like each of Vulcan’s development projects, Batik will also feature artwork from a local artist and chosen specifically for the site. Vulcan commissioned Seattle artist, Saya Moriyasu, who created an 11-foot bronze figure of a woman that will be prominently installed along Yesler Way, adjacent to the project’s retail space. The artist has named the figure Maya, whom she says “guides, protects and cares for us.” SHA is also building a strong arts and culture program throughout the neighborhood.

Yesler is more than just buildings. Many visitors to the neighborhood are surprised to find awe-inspiring views of Mount Rainier, a community park and other improvements.

As our region continues to densify, the public and private sectors will need to continue to work together to contribute toward an inclusive community where everyone can benefit from the economic growth of our city.


Read More Stories