Seattle’s long-term economic strength depends on our ability to support a wide range of industries and attract a talented and creative workforce. One sector that doesn’t get the support it deserves from city officials is our “nighttime economy” — the thriving music and arts performance scene that creates more than 11,000 jobs and generates more than $1 billion in revenue.

More than just a source of jobs and economic vitality, the nighttime economy is a key part of our cultural identity and it is the catalyst for creating exciting and vibrant neighborhoods. The local music and arts scene is also a key reason why the Wall Street Journal recently named Seattle… the nation’s No. 1 “youth magnet,” a title we share with Washington D.C.

I believe the city should do more to create an environment where Seattle’s nighttime economy can flourish—from providing more transportation options and expanding police foot patrols at night, to exploring opportunities to adjust land use policies and incentives to encourage the growth of music businesses. For more specific recommendations and ideas, please check out the new “nighttime economy” page in the Issues section of this website.