Skip to content

Seattle Culture

Back page: Things have changed in Seattle. Or not.

Seattle is grappling with the same issues half a century later

By Rob Smith June 9, 2023

Seattle Cover magazine June 1969
Seattle Cover magazine June 1969
Image courtesy of Seattle Magazine

This article originally appeared in the May/June 2023 issue of Seattle magazine.

Nobody would argue that it’s very different today than it was in 1969. Or is it? In June of that year, Seattle magazine tackled several issues facing the city, including transportation, the racial divide, rapid growth, city politics, the environment and neighborhood revitalization.

Sure, some of the finer points are different, but the broader debate is ongoing. The introduction reads, in part: “Suddenly (Seattle) has became a city with smog, clogged freeways, urban sprawl, and ahead looms the vision of a monster Pugetopolis.” Back then, the population of the Puget Sound region was about 1.5 million. It’s 3.5 million today.

If there’s a lesson here, it’s this: There’s no stopping growth, but managing it in a thoughtful way is a challenge that will never cease. And while the city has its share of problems, it has done quite well for itself. The debate rolls on.

Follow Us

Treat Mom to Some Emerald City Elegance This Mother’s Day

Treat Mom to Some Emerald City Elegance This Mother’s Day

Food, spa treatments, and overnight stays

Hospitality professionals are busiest during holidays and celebrations when the rest of us are taking time off. That includes Hotel 1000 Director of Food and Beverage Victoria Fox, mother of a 5-year-old boy, who will work on Mother’s Day this Sunday to ensure other mothers rejoice on their special day. “Mother’s Day is intended to be for the…

Publisher's Note: Trailblazing Women - The Power of Courage and Vision

Publisher’s Note: Trailblazing Women – The Power of Courage and Vision

Thought leaders share diverse perspectives, challenge gender norms

Women should run the world. I believe the world would simply be better if there were more female CEOs, board members, founders, and yes, presidents. In this “Trailblazing Women” issue — on stands now and available by subscription —  we are privileged to feature extraordinary women whose contributions across technology, health care, social justice, and…

The Pulse: Full Speed into May

The Pulse: Full Speed into May

Taco season is upon us and tidepool creatures are putting on a show

The sun’s out and the pollen is rude, but it’s almost Cinco de Mayo. My grandpa was Mexican and ran a restaurant, so we always mark the day with a party at our place — carnitas and Pacifico. I’ll be cooking. The kids will be slamming horchata. What about you? Are you celebrating? Here’s what’s…

A Big Win for Pioneer Square’s Small Businesses

A Big Win for Pioneer Square’s Small Businesses

New grants fuel neighborhood establishments as downtown changes and pressures mount

The federal government is pulling funding from important community services, research and nonprofits. Across the region, organizations are scrambling to stay open — or closing for good. Small businesses are getting hammered by tariffs and recession fears. But in Seattle’s oldest neighborhood, there’s a different story unfolding. The Alliance for Pioneer Square, a nonprofit focused…