Every neighborhood deserves places for community members to gather, buy essential goods, create art together, and build a community. But right now, that kind of commercial and community space can be hard to find or afford. Legalizing corner stores would help bring these services and community spaces to every neighborhood. Some of the benefits of corner stores include:

1. Making it easier for residents to walk to essential goods and services.

2. Creating community gathering places for neighbors to meet and connect

3. Often selling cultural ingredients and other items that are specific to the population living in the immediate neighborhood

4. Supporting community safety by increasing eyes and ears on the streets

5. Reducing food deserts by opening the door for the development of local bodegas

6. Giving artists and micro-entrepreneurs a way to easily connect with, and sell their wares to their local community

Seattle is not zoned to allow commercial retail spaces in areas that are zoned for residential use. The Mayor's Draft Comprehensive Plan gets us a step closer by allowing corner stores — but only on corner lots in residential neighborhoods. We are asking that Seattle allow corner stores in all residential areas throughout the city and reduce other barriers like reducing parking and setback minimums.

Add your name in support of legalizing corner stores in every neighborhood.

This petition is sponsored by the GSBA, Seattle Neighborhood Greenways, and Futurewise.