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Bothell Main Street Activation

Project

Year

2023

Location

Bothell, Washington

Client

City of Bothell

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The Challenge

Activating Downtown in the Interim

Activating the large vacant lot in downtown Bothell, WA, presented a unique design challenge, as the space needed to be both functional in the short term and adaptable for future mixed-use development. First Forty Feet was hired to develop a series of design alternatives that allowed the community to participate in envisioning this temporary transformation. The proposed designs featured adaptable, temporary elements—such as modular seating, food truck zones, event areas, and pop-up retail structures—that could accommodate a range of activities and be easily adjusted for different uses and seasons. Community members were invited to vote on their preferred options, ensuring that the selected design resonated with local values and interests. Through this collaborative and flexible approach, the vacant lot served as a bustling public space that built excitement for Bothell’s downtown revitalization while setting the stage for its future development.

Bothell's Backyard is a concept that established many small scale gathering zones that can cater to a wide range of social events throughout the year. These are easily adaptable and allow for future expansion as demand rises.

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BOMA is a concept that establishes Bothell as a cultural and artistic community of engaged residents who participate in the activation of public space in downtown Bothell.

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Bothell's Front Porch is a concept focused on bringing to life the analogy of a resident's front porch as an activator of public space and public engagement.

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The Winter Ice Pad & Summer Track is a concept that allows for year round recreation, especially during the winter and summer months.

The Impact

Establishing Downtown as a Destination

As the activation plan for the vacant lot in downtown Bothell gets implemented, it brings a host of impactful benefits to the community and local economy. Transforming the space into a lively, adaptable gathering area increases foot traffic, which supports nearby businesses and stimulates economic activity. The addition of event zones, food trucks, and pop-up retail spaces attracts visitors and creates a vibrant social hub, fostering a stronger sense of community and connection among residents. With modular, temporary installations, the site remains flexible, allowing Bothell to host a variety of activities and seasonal events that keep the space fresh and engaging. By using the lot as an active public space in the interim, Bothell is also cultivating community interest and excitement for future mixed-use development, establishing the downtown area as a desirable destination well before permanent construction begins.

Get in touch

Want to know more about this project?

a better city exists

FIRST FORTY FEET


412 NW Couch St, Suite 405

Portland, Oregon 97209
 

t: 503.764.9692

CERTIFICATIONS

Emerging Small Business  (ESB)
Certification No.: 13469

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