Neighborhood Improvement Fund
The Neighborhood Improvement Fund was established by the Ballpark PFD in 2019 under the new lease with the Mariners. The purpose of the fund is "to support work consistent with the PFD’s statutory authority and mission statement.” The PFD’s statutory authority includes the power to promote, advertise, improve, develop, operate and maintain the facilities of the district. The facilities of the district include the ballpark, associated parking facilities, and ancillary services and facilities.
The PFD’s mission statement is: To maintain and enhance our iconic baseball park in order to promote the success of Major League Baseball in the State of Washington, enhance fan enjoyment, and contribute to an economically successful, safe, desirable, innovative and walkable stadium neighborhood.
The Mariners and the PFD have each appointed two representatives to a four-member advisory committee that will discuss potential projects and expenditures to be funded. The advisory committee will also seek input and feedback from other stakeholders as appropriate.
Goals
In addition to the eligibility criteria described above, the PFD Board has identified the following set of goals that are consistent with the organization’s mission and provide additional guidance for identification and/or approval of projects:
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Improve the public safety and general pedestrian experience of the fan, employee, and general public to, from, and around the ballpark by improving lighting and wayfinding, installing public art, and enhancing the general aesthetic or functionality of sidewalk and/or crosswalk conditions.
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Work with the Mariners, the City, and others to enhance the immediate Ballpark neighborhood through urban design, supporting neighborhood planning, and helping catalyze an improved mix of building types.
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Increase the sustainability of the ballpark and neighborhood by supporting study of capital improvement projects and deep-green initiatives, such as fuel switching and provision of sustainable fuel sources to other buildings in the neighborhood.
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Improve the fan experience and increase neighborhood pedestrian activity through capital improvement projects that support daily and seasonal recreational/music programming in public and private spaces in the neighborhood.
Equity and Inclusion
When possible, any project supported by the NIF will reflect, include, and empower black, Indigenous, people of color (BIPOC) communities in the neighborhood, city, and region. For instance, when considering public art installation, the party responsible for the project will proactively seek artists from BIPOC communities.