Hing Hay Park is brighter in the evenings with new canopy lighting fixtures funded by the City and business donors.
The string lighting, studded with red and yellow lanterns, was paid for by Seattle Parks & Recreation, the Office of Economic Development, businesses donors, and the Chinatown International District Business Improvement Area (CIDBIA), which served as fiscal sponsor for the project. Donors included Tai Tung, Edge Properties, Uwajimaya, KODA Apartments, BMW Seattle, Metro Auto Rebuild, Pacific Auto Body, Vulcan, and Nitze-Stagen.
The CIDBIA will maintain the permanent lighting.
Evan Chan, Principal at Edge Developers and owner of Tai Tung restaurant, said the lights will make the park more welcoming for residents and visitors, allowing seniors to play ping pong and more cultural events to take place in the evenings.
“Although these lights will not solve all the neighborhood’s issues, it is a step forward in improving our neighborhood,” Chan said during a press conference announcing the lighting on February 15. “These lights will enhance the safety of the park making it a comfortable and inviting environment for everyone to enjoy.”
“This bright addition serves as a testament to our commitment to creating a welcoming and safe Chinatown International District for all those who work, live and visit the neighborhood,” said Monisha Singh, executive director of the CIDBIA. “We invite residents and visitors alike to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the new park under the warm glow of these beautiful new lights.”
Mayor Bruce Harrell said during the announcement that the lighting is part of his administration’s Downtown Activation Plan. “We’re going to light up this gem of our city called the Chinatown International District,” Harrell said. “We’re trying to activate it, because you have to keep your home safe, you have to keep the neighborhood safe, we have to make sure small businesses can thrive.”
The City sponsors several recreational events at Hing Hay Park, including the Dancing Til Dusk, Center City Cinema movie nights, and buskers.
