Friday, July 24, 2026

2026.7.24. Hidden Spaces - an SAF tour

7/24 Friday. A free tour of Hidden Public Spaces by SAF. I forgot for what occasion. We are to appreciate public places in the city that are free to use, but "hidden". These amenities are a requirement mandated by the city for some development to be permitted.

We met at Westlake Park. Our guide as well as many participants live in downtown area. Only one is a tourist, from Taiwan, but came with a local. I learned that removing the power plugs in the Westlake Park practically cleared the homeless crowd.

2nd stop, Freeway Park. There's even a plaque of public space. Our guide pointed out quite a few art installations.

Two Union Square corridor (photo on right)
Rainier Square Tower, public terrace at level 3. Good to know that it's still accessible after the reconstruction. SAF used to lead tours from here.
Cedar Hall.
Central Library.
4th and Madison building, 7th floor "rooftop"/open terrace.

We mostly walked through buildings via indoor elevators, escalators, stairs. Rarely we were outside on the street. Good to know, but not sure if I remember these "hidden" walkways.