Site Report 2

Historically, the block of Roosevelt Way and ninth between 42nd and 43rd has been primarily a residential area of the University District. In 1893 when the the original map was drawn, planning out the “Brooklyn” neighborhood, Roosevelt was originally called “Summit Ave” and ninth was called “Leddy Ave.” Prior to its development, the area was primarily trees and other plants. Its lack of use paralleled the overall under-use of this area prior to the University of Washington being moved to this location. The slight hill that has been maintained today was not changed too drastically due to its grade not being that extreme relative to other streets in the area so that the horse and carriage could more easily manage (USGS). This made it a very suitable road for transportation and thus eventually lead to it being connected to a bridge and developed as a more commercial area later on. With respect to topography, there has not been that much that has changed at this block, as it was suitable for development from the beginning.

The University of Washington Medical Center Roosevelt Clinic is the most recent building built, constructed in 1994. It replaced what was mostly single family residential housing (Zillow.com). The houses that it replaced were most likely original buildings, as the only home left on the south end was built in 1908. Interestingly, the University of Washington is listed as the owner of this house, leading one to believe they intended for it to be developed into something else (Zillow.com). This house can actually be seen in a picture taken from the top of Terry Hall in 1958. The picture also shows the drastic difference in height of the buildings that were erected. In the picture, the area feels more open and visible. The newest looking building on the north end, which serves as a recording studio, is actually built in 1924. This was especially surprising due to its modern look, but upon closer inspection to pictures taken, the paint merely covers the original construction material. There is very little evidence of any past vegetation on this block, as most of it is covered in concrete. There are no roots that have altered the sidewalks and only a bit of moss in between the cracks of the sidewalk. Trees are present, but given their size they were planted after the the block had already been mostly developed.