Community Effects of the Marymoor Arts and Science Center

Abstract

University of WashingtonAbstract Community Effects of the Marymoor Arts and Science Center Duncan Lachlan Fields Chair of the Supervisory Committee: Sofia Dermisi Department of Urban Design & Planning This thesis examines the potential placemaking and economic impacts of the proposed Marymoor Arts and Science Center in the Marymoor Village neighborhood of Redmond, Washington. As currently planned, the mixed-use building would function as a civic center to host a variety of programming rooted in arts and science and offer affordable housing units designated for artists. This thesis supports the due diligence process of OneRedmond, the nonprofit organization currently leading the project. The analysis draws on a comparable case study approach, examining the context, programming, and documented community and economic effects of three other similar institutions across the country. These comparable facilities include the Patricia Reser Center in Beaverton, Oregon; the Clay Center in Charleston, West Virginia; and the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Organizational documents, external reports, and news coverage were reviewed. GIS and demographic analysis of the area surrounding each facility was also conducted.