Skyway, WA
 
Skyway, WA

Skyway is located in unincorporated King County, just south of Seattle city limits. As an unincorporated area and low-income community, it has suffered from a lack of investment and services. Skyway has the highest proportion of Black residents of any community in Washington State. Its proximity to Seattle, Lake Washington views, and easy access to highways place it at high risk for gentrification and displacement.

Over the past few years, the community has worked diligently to build coalitions focused on food sovereignty, lobbying for affordable housing investments, and securing a commitment from the county for a community center. Many of these investments are still on the horizon. LISC’s inclusive economic development planning and funding for implementation will help Skyway achieve its shorter-term objectives, including continued organizational capacity building.

Skyway Initiatives

  • Growing Organizational Capacity: Empowering local organizations to actively engage in economic development.
  • Organizing Retail Corridors: Supporting small businesses and promoting vibrant commercial districts.
  • Investing in Community Wealth: Facilitating community and generational wealth through affordable housing and financial literacy programs.
  • Expanding Economic Opportunities: Enhancing job opportunities and training programs for residents.

Results

  • Skyway Business District Development: Transformation of the Skyway Coalition into a Community Development Association (CDA) and providing technical assistance to partners.
  • Community Resource Center: Construction of the new Skyway Community Resource Center, which will serve as a hub for professional resources and support.
  • Farmers Market: Certification for SNAP/EBT acceptance, increasing access to fresh produce, and securing funding for permanent staffing.
  • Business Support: Supporting 20 businesses with resources such as bookkeeping, branding, financials, and marketing.
  • Community Events: Hosting four vibrant events that showcased local businesses and attracted 300-500 individuals each.
  • Housing and Services: Implementing the Tiny Home Village for homeless individuals, housing 60 residents, and providing essential amenities and case management services.

Key Partners

  • Skyway Coalition: Leading the transformation into a Community Development Association (CDA) and coordinating the Skyway Resource Center.
  • Urban Food Systems Pact: Supporting the Skyway Farmers Market and enhancing community engagement and economic development initiatives.
  • Low-Income Housing Institute: Collaborating on affordable housing development and housing stability programs.
  • King County: Committing to the development of a community center and participating in various community initiatives.
  • Local Businesses: Engaging in the business support programs and participating in community events.
  • BIPOC Farmers: Strengthening connections and participation in the Skyway Farmers Market.
  • Housing Authority of the County of King Washington: Partnering on housing and community development projects.
  • Birdsign Consulting: Providing technical assistance and support for various initiatives.

Next Steps

  • Strategic Planning and Capacity Building: Continue supporting the Urban Food Systems Pact and the sustainability of the Skyway Farmers Market and Bazaar.
  • Community Engagement: Enhance community engagement and economic development initiatives, including commercial corridor activation and support for the Skyway Resource Center.
Download Economic Agenda