Mayor Ed Murray issued the following statement after signing the Mount Baker zoning legislation:

“Today I signed the Mount Baker re-zone legislation, a proposal that has been years in the making. However, this is just the beginning. I am determined to continue working with the community and city departments to turn this vision into a reality.

“That reality includes housing of all types: low-income, workforce, and market rate. Along with housing, the reality includes improved transportation. I will work with Sound Transit to leverage the light rail investment and will work with the Department of Transportation to address all modes of transportation.

“But perhaps most important for this community is an economic development and jobs strategy. The Department of Planning and Development, the Office of Economic Development and the Department of Neighborhoods are spearheading an interdepartmental effort. My goal is to strengthen existing businesses and the business mix to enable the district to compete successfully in the market. Actions include:
· Reaching out to local property owners to increase employment opportunities and street-level activation.
· Working with education institutions, non-profits, and businesses to create new job training opportunities.
· Encouraging business organizations to seek funding through our Only in Seattle program.
· Resurrecting and expanding the Southeast Seattle Reinvestment Area (SESRA), the priority permitting program for the Rainier Valley, to facilitate new business startup.

“We have a lot of work to do; we look forward to working with many partners.”