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World Cup questions remains for some Seattle neighborhoods
The FIFA World Cup is just days away, but some Seattle neighborhoods still have questions surrounding safety, sanitation and crowds.
SEATTLE - With the FIFA World Cup approaching, leaders in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District say they’re hoping the global event brings investment not added strain to a neighborhood still recovering from the pandemic.
Former Seattle City Councilmember Tanya Woo says local businesses want to welcome visitors but worry they may be asked to take on more than they can handle without additional support.
Concerns over safety, sanitation and turnout
Local perspective:
Woo says business owners are being asked to host events tied to the World Cup, but remain concerned about whether the necessary resources will follow.
She also raised concerns about ongoing criminal activity near 12th Avenue and South Jackson Street, including drug use and sales, and how that could impact perceptions of the neighborhood during a global event.
Last week, local leaders discussed safety plans. Dozens of agencies will work together during the matches. Ken Neafcy with the Office of Emergency Management said the city will operate under a unified command structure led by four key departments: police, fire, transportation and emergency management.
Logistics and access challenges
Big picture view:
Beyond safety, Woo says logistics remain a major concern for business owners who rely on consistent access for deliveries.
"We’re also worried about traffic and parking. Many of our businesses get supplies from vendors in the morning. We were told that we have to stock up ahead of time," said Woo.
Following a recent community meeting with local organizers, Woo says she learned that portable toilets could take up parking spaces and that some streets will be designated for rideshare drop-offs, adding to concerns about accessibility.
FOX 13 Seattle has reached out to SDOT for additional information.
Frustration over unanswered questions
What they're saying:
With the event drawing closer, Woo says many in the community still feel in the dark.
"I feel like 50 days out, we're still trying to figure things out," she said. "Many of our businesses have been asked to host events to put in the extra work without the resources to do so."
Woo says confusion is especially challenging for residents and business owners who do not speak English as their primary language, and that there is uncertainty about who to turn to for answers between city leaders and event organizers.
FOX 13 has reached out to local FIFA leadership for a response.
Will the crowds come?
What's next:
Even as preparations continue, Woo questioned whether the expected economic boost will materialize for the CID.
"Will our businesses actually be busy?" she questioned. "As we all know, during MLB week, locals stayed away. Also, tourists and visitors stayed away from the community and this area was just quiet."
As Seattle prepares to host the world, CID leaders say they’re still waiting for clarity and hoping the event delivers meaningful support for the community rather than added pressure.
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The Source: Information in this story comes from original reporting by FOX 13 Seattle reporter Lauren Donovan.