It’s hard to argue with Seattle’s goal for a clean, green future but its methods are another thing.

Seattle’s Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) website says its Living Building and 2030 Challenge pilot programs are “intended to help us move beyond making incremental changes so we can fundamentally reshape our building and transportation systems for a fossil-free future.”

The Living Building Challenge (LBC) certification is described as “striving to create buildings that “reconnect occupants with nature,” generate more energy than they use, capture and treat all water on site and are made with healthy materials. 

All are worthy goals but in exchange, LBC developments are given generous height and Floor Area Ratio (FAR) incentives that exceed current building code.  Not considered in these incentives is the tacit price neighbors will pay.

What happens to existing buildings when height and massing incentives that help connect new neighbors to nature, erodes their own connection to the same? 

That’s the dilemma faced by neighbors of  Belltown’s proposed 2616 Western Ave., a Living Building Challenge residential project that adjacent residents say will add 25’ feet of height beyond code and  erode their access to light, air and views.

Organizing as the Belltown Livability Coalition (BLC), the group is challenging the project development, now in Master Use Permit (MUP) review.  So far they have more questions than answers. 

It’s unknown whether the impacts of these green incentives have been reviewed under SEPA and also why green projects are allowed building standard departures and still qualify for incentives.

Then there’s the issue of cumulative impacts. The BLC website says if left unchecked the Living Building Challenge and other high standard green incentive programs could have a direct effect on over 23 undeveloped or underdeveloped lots in the North Belltown area, “cluttering our skyline, cutting off light to the surroundings buildings, and modifying our city plan without our input.”

In March SDCI introduced fast track permitting for green projects.  And, as the City continues to push for green construction, BLC says the community must speak up now.  

To stay abreast of emerging issues and join the Belltown Livability Coalition’s efforts, click here.