Site Report 1

A view of Chase bank on 45th and University Ave. University District (Seattle, WA).  Photographed by Michelle Kang, 01/20/17.

Alley way between Brooklyn Ave. and University Way. University District (Seattle, WA).  Photographed by Michelle Kang, 01/20/17.

Christ Episcopal Church on Brooklyn Ave. University District (Seattle, WA).  Photographed by Michelle Kang, 01/20/17.

Hand drawn map of block 48. University District (Seattle, WA).  Photographed by Michelle Kang, 01/20/17.

Block 48 is in the busiest part of the U District, a very busy block full of college life. Filled with restaurants, cafes, shops, and apartments, this block serves all the purposes for fulfilling the needs of college students. There are two banks, Chase and Keybank.

Looking at the block in the intersection of NE 45th st. and University Way, you may notice something that stands out. The concrete building on the corner of this intersection, currently housing Chase bank, has intricate designs that seem to have been inspired by Roman architecture. The patterns engraved on the concrete walls don't fit with the rest of the block that looks more modern and box-like. It stands out because of it's uniqueness. 

The second picture is of the alley way between Brooklyn Ave. and University Way. It's as long as the block from 45th st. to 47th st. but very narrow. the space is just enough for a van to drive through. Trash bins are lined up along one side of the wall, however, it is still very well maintained. There aren't trash lying around nor is there any sort of foul smell. The walls of borth side are made of brick with doors that lead to each store. This alley way was an exception to the busy streets of the U district.  

One of the biggest attractions on Brooklyn Ave. is the Christ Episcopal Church that is located on the corner of Brooklyn Ave and 47th St. This small neighborhood church made of red bricks was established in 1903. Where there used to be a parish hall next to the currently standing church, now is a large parking lot. During the Great Depression, the parish hall was donated to YMCA for the use of the community. Having stood for over 100 years, this church has had 13 reverends (CEC).

It felt safe to walk on University Way because it was full of college students eating lunch, and shopping at stores. On the other had, Brooklyn Ave was more run down and quiet. Walking around the block, I was able to smell three things. Something smelled fishy near Key Bank's parking garage located on the corner of 45th st. and Brooklyn Ave. The second smell was of coffee. The aroma of roasted coffee beans poured out onto the streets as a man opened the doors to Starbucks. The third smell was of food. Specifically Chinese food that smelled very garlicy and gingery. Walking at a slow pace and examining each store that stood on the block, I was able to notice the details. The majority of the stores were run down and old with fogged up windows and stickers all over ground in front of the stores. The buildings had no character like the Chase bank building. Only a few, like Starbucks and Cali Burger, looked very new and urban. The scarcity of modern architecture made the few stores look out of place. However, whether it was old or new, the constant footsteps made it evident that people still enjoyed spending time at these restaurants, cafes, and shops. For over a century, this block has provided the community with great settings for people to bond and create memories.