Seattle Streets AlliancePike Place Is Thriving With Fewer Cars. Let’s Show What’s Next
- JoshHolland
- April 28, 2026
Great news: after a full year of the Pike Place pedestrian pilot, the data is in—and people love it.
Foot traffic is up 5.6%. Sales are up 6.5%.
That’s a clear signal that when we prioritize people over car traffic, Pike Place becomes more welcoming, more vibrant, and better for the businesses that make it so special.
Now it’s time to build on that success.
Bring Your Own Chair to Pike Place
Even with car traffic now limited from 10 AM to 4 PM each day, there’s still no permanent, year-round seating on the street. That’s a missed opportunity.
So we’re inviting people to bring a folding chair, grab lunch from a Market vendor, and take a seat in the street. It’s a small act that makes a big point: Pike Place should be a place to linger, gather, and enjoy—not just move through.
Event Details
Why:
Highlight the success of the pilot, show how going further could bring even more people to the Market, and demonstrate demand for year-round seating.
When:
Wednesday, April 29, 12:00–1:00 PM
Where:
East side of Pike Place
How:
- Bring a camp chair or folding chair
- Grab takeout from one of the Market’s many incredible food spots
- Set up your chair and enjoy the space
We’re there to celebrate, not to create conflict, so please be respectful, make space for deliveries, and move if needed.
The pilot has shown what’s possible. Now let’s help make the case for what comes next.
