Please Visit Our New Site

All updates will now be made on our new Website.  Please visit us at:

www.downtownbellevue.com

Coming Soon, A New Downtownbellevue.com!

By Monday (if everything goes as planned) you will be viewing our site on a new platform! There will be many upgrades that we're excited to share with you next week.

This is also a reminder to those who follow our RSS feed, that the feed will be changing. So, make sure you visit the new site at www.downtownbellevue.com to view the new feed and on-site features.

Bellevue City Council Announces Preferred Light Rail Route

As anticipated, the Bellevue City Council selected a preferred light rail route, which would largely affect the future of transportation in the downtown core of Bellevue.

The council’s priorities, according to their release, were based on the following: 

• Building a regional transit system that connects the area’s 3 largest employment centers: downtown Seattle, downtown Bellevue, and Microsoft’s main campus in Redmond.
  
• Utilizing a light rail route, including a downtown tunnel, that supports “smart growth” policies aimed at concentrating development in urban areas.
  
• Protecting neighborhoods and commercial districts from impacts during and after construction of East Link.
  
• Choosing a route that maximizes ridership, while minimizing travel times.
  
• Providing a fast, reliable, and environmentally friendly alternative to solo driving.
  

The chosen route by the council is an underground tunnel, which would run west on Main Street from 112th Ave and north on 106th Ave NE, and then east on NE 6th St underneath the city’s transit center.  “The tunnel is an absolute necessity,” Bellevue Mayor Grant Degginger said. “If light rail is built on surface streets, we believe the downtown area could become a chokepoint for the entire East Link system."

Sound Transit will take into consideration both the public and the council’s recommendations over the last 75-day public comment period and voice their own preferred route in April, for the East Link Light Rail system.  The Sound Transit Board will make an ultimate decision in mid-2010.

Image Credit: City of Bellevue

Questionable Seattle Times Article Stirs Readers

A cover story in Friday's Seattle Times depicted Danil Kasimov's experience as a buyer at Bellevue Towers. As Kasimov's move-in date at Bellevue Towers approached, he learned he would no longer be able to afford the home, leaving him out the $75,000 he borrowed from a friend for the earnest money - according to the Seattle Times.

The article states that Kasimov, as well as 5 other prospective buyers, filed lawsuit's in King County Superior Court against Bellevue Towers and JP Morgan Chase Bank, alleging the lender falsified documents.

Nancy Bartley, the author of the article "$1.5M condo on $20K income? Prospective buyers lose $175K in Bellevue," along with David Turim, the researcher for the Times, have been ridiculed by readers with over 520 comments (at the time of this post) for poor journalism and the lack of research.

The article states Kasimov is a "Limousine driver, earning little more than minimum wage." The story goes on to portray Kasimov and the others as immigrants stating, "None whom are fluent in English."

Hundreds of comments in the comments section have been quick to point out the many facts that have been overlooked in this case:

• Danil Kasimov is not just a driver, but owns the limo company - according the Secretary of State.
  
• Danil Kasimov owns 2 properties over $600,000 and has had many deeds of trust transfers in the last several years. Between all of the plaintiffs, there are a total of 19 deeds of trusts that have been signed with more than 10 transactions.
• The article states Davud Kasparov is not fluent in English, although he is a recent UW Engineering graduate.
  
• One commenter stated, "He was likely using 'Stated income' loans to finance his numerous deals." This is a type of loan product that no longer exists in the current economic climate.

Patrick Clark, a Principal at Realty Trust City who represents selling the Bellevue Towers Condos, has posted a letter to the editor in the comments section stating how he is disappointed with the story and how it was "One-sided, fraught with errors, sensationalist, and irresponsible." He goes on to finish by saying, "With reputations on the line, it is negligent to rush a story out without full reporting of knowledge of the facts."

Other similar letters have been written to the editor within the comments section. Looks like The Seattle Times and its writers and researchers may have some explaining to do . With as much attention this story has gotten, it is likely that this is not the last we've heard.

Hard Hat Tour at The Bravern

The multi-use Bravern project is beginning to take its final shape. The Neiman Marcus and Microsoft signs are up, and Microsoft has already begun moving employees into one of their office buildings. The next big turning point for the project will be in September when The Shops at The Bravern are planned to open.

Wayne Hussey, Sr. VP of Store Development at Neiman Marcus, led a tour of their future space, which is currently under construction at The Shops at The Bravern. We were led through areas that were filled with construction workers, tools, dark lighting, and maps - but when open will be filled with luxury clothing brands including Chanel, Prada, Cartier, and much more. During the tour Mr. Hussey informed us that the store will offer a restaurant, Mariposa.

In addition to Neiman Marcus, the hard hat tour featured stops through other retail locations. One location that stood out was Wild Ginger's future space. The space features large windows that allow for lots of light. The restaurant will be slightly smaller than its Seattle location, but will have a multiple floor layout and include a bar area.

The Bravern's European inspired destination, which is centered on its over 300,000 sq.-ft. luxury retail, is starting to become a reality. September is less than 7 months away; surely the construction workers will be scurrying to make their deadlines, in preparation for the holiday shopping season.

Bellevue City Council Approves Bel-Red Plan to Transform Area

On Tuesday, the Bellevue City Council approved the Bel-Red development plan. The re-zoning plan is made up of over 900 acres of industrial and commercial property. This plan, which has been worked on for over 3 years, has the expansion centered on Bellevue's Light Rail, which was approved in November.

The old industrial and commercial property is intended to become new office, retail and residential space. Many might be familiar with the location of Safeway's distribution center, which is one of the areas this project intends to occupy.

Although this area certainly isn't considered a part of "Downtown Bellevue," it will surely be a natural area of expansion when the downtown core reaches capacity. Although the economy is currently on a down swing, this project has a much longer lifespan and will outlive any current up or down trend in the economy.

As stated by the City of Bellevue, the plan approved on Tuesday specifically calls for:

• New parks, trails and bike paths to enhance neighborhoods and better connect them to other parts of the city
  
• The day lighting of six streams to benefit salmon and other aquatic life
  
• Increased open space
  
• More affordable housing, with specific targets to serve low- and moderate-income households
  
• New office and commercial space blended with residential development, including up to 10,000 new jobs and 5,000 new housing units organized around high-capacity transit stations by 2030.
  

The approved plan has buildings in this area limited to 13 stories and limits specific areas to 3 to 6-story buildings.

Seattle Metropolitan Magazine Features Bellevue's Growth

February's issue of Seattle Metropolitan Magazine features the Eastside, and more specifically, Downtown Bellevue as its cover story. The cover's headline implies a competition between Seattle and Bellevue by stating, "Look out, Seattle. Bellevue is gaining on you."

The article focuses on both the retail, and mixed-use projects that will be complete in the next few years on the Eastside. Many familiar with the Eastside and Downtown Bellevue may not find any revelations within the article, but the article but is a good overview of the type of growth that the Eastside has had and will have.

You can begin reading the article on Seattle Metropolitan's site, but you'll have to pick up an issue to read the whole story.

Now Open: Tangerine Thai Cusine at Tower 333

Formally Chaiyo Thai Cuisine at the Bellevue Galleria, now re-named Tangerine Thai, has opened at Tower 333 - or as many people know it as the "Expedia Tower" on 4th and 108th Ave.

Tangerine Thai specializes in traditional Thai dishes. The interior design features authentic Thai decor. The restaurant is anticipated to be a popular destination for Expedia employees and other companies which surround. In addition, many current and future Bellevue Towers residents will now be able to enjoy Thai food across the street. (If they were smart, they'd consider delivering it to Bellevue Towers residents!)

Tangerine Thai will be open 7 days a week and offer a happy hour Monday through Saturday, from 3:30 - 5:30pm, with items starting at $2.

Flint, Men's Grooming Now Open!

Flint, a men's grooming salon, hosted their grand opening celebration when they opened their doors to customers this weekend. Flint offers both grooming and massage services, which cater to men who want to look and feel their best.

Flint offers haircuts, trims, shaves, hand details, foot details, facials, waxing, and massages.

The store was established by a husband and wife team, Alan & Sarah Hartgraves. Alan never felt comfortable with the salons and barbershops he frequented, so he decided to create Flint which has a more masculine atmosphere.

Customers at Flint are encouraged to get to their appointment early and relax while watching TV or drinking a beverage to create a sense of home away from home.

Flint is located at 10235 Main Street and is open 7 days a week!


Photos Credit Flint

Helicopters to Fly in Downtown Bellevue?

A public meeting will be held for the application to install a helistop, atop the Bellevue Place Bank of America building by Kemper Development Co. The helistop as described would add lighting, a safety net, and a ladder. The landing location would not allow for refueling. It's anticipated that there would be a maximum of 40 landing and take-offs per month, between the hours of 8am and 7pm. The landing pad has been in place for 20 years since 1988, when the tower was built, but only taken advantage of on very few occasions.

Those opposed to the application are worried about the noise that the helicopters would create, as well as the risk associated with flying helicopters in urban areas with skyscrapers.

The public meeting will take place on February 18th at 6pm at Bellevue City Hall.

If You Build It, They Will Come...And They Have

Expedia has recently completed their move into Tower 333, moving what was anticipated to be 1,700 employees into Downtown Bellevue. The move began in October and finished up in December. The move, which was very smooth, can already be felt by the Downtown community during lunch hours, when employees go out in search of a meal.

Expedia is not the only one that has moved into newly completed construction. Residents of Bellevue Towers have just begun to move in, beginning last week. Over the course of 2009, purchasers of Bellevue Towers homes will be invited to take occupancy. At full capacity, the 2 towers make up 540 homes.

The 2 projects, which share NE 4th Street, will have an immense impact on Downtown Bellevue; bringing many new workers and residents to the area. Look in the coming weeks for a "tour" through the Bellevue Towers amenities spaces!

Ask Lea: Be My Valentine

Dear Lea,
Where should I take my lady out for Valentine's Day?

- Lost in Love

Dear Lost In Love,

This Valentine's Day, there are plenty of places in Downtown Bellevue to take your special someone. However, the secret's out - so you better call for reservations quick! No more notorious procrastinating, gentlemen. Here's a quick list of places to let your love blossom:

Bis On Main

Voted "Most Romantic" restaurant by the DBA Haute Picks, 3 years in a row.

- Will be serving a special Valentine's Day menu

- Each lady will receive a rose on her way out

0/8 Seafood Grill & Twisted Cork Wine Bar

Always serving up great live music every Saturday night.

- 7-course tasting menu with wine pairings, and a circling champagne cart ($145 pp)

- Will arrange to have flowers waiting on the table for your date

Pearl Bar & Dining

Downtown Bellevue's newest independent restaurant and lounge.

- Featured dinner entree of steak and lobster ($49)

- An vast selection of wines, many of which are from Washington

The Melting Pot

A unique interactive fondue experience. Fun and romantic!

- Pre-set 4-course dinner ($78 pp - includes chocolate fondue)

- Champagne, Nicolas Feuillatte, Brute 1/4 Fun, Epernay, FR, NV ($14 - serves 2)

Toscano

New restaurant, serving fresh Pacific Northwest cuisine.

- Offering a special 7-course menu ($85 pp)

- Wine pairings ($30)

The Spot Off Main

In addition to billiards, always offering something fun and different.

- Showing 2 movies on Valentine's Day:

1. Casablanca - 4:30pm

2. The Lake House - 6:45pm

So take your pick, and don't hesitate. Your Valentine will be pleasantly surprised by your date!

Happy Love Day,
Lea

Have a question you'd like to ask? Email me: lea@downtownbellevue.com

Ruth's Chris Late Night Happy Hour Returns to Bellevue

Over a year ago, Ruth's Chris eliminated their late night happy hour - a decision made by the new owners that took over the Downtown Bellevue location. In mid-December, they brought it back by popular demand! Their late night happy hour is 9-11pm daily (9-10pm on Sundays).

Drinks included on the happy hour menu are: $3.95 well drinks, $2.95 draft beer, and $3.95 wine & champagne. If you're in the mood for food, the menu features a cheese burger with fries for $3.95, seared Ahi tuna with spicy mustard for $4.95, coconut shrimp with orange marmalade sauce for $4.95, and much more.

New York Chef to Open 2 Restaurants at The Bravern

Terrance Brennan, a widely known chef famous for his 2 New York City restaurants, will open 2 new restaurants in Bellevue at The Shops at The Bravern: Artisnal Brasserie & Wine Bar and The Artisanal Table: Pizzeria Tapas.

Terrance was named a "Best New Chef" by Food & Wine Magazine in 1995 and has been nominated for many local and national awards since.

Astisnal Brasserie will be a modern French brasserie cuisine and home to some of the finest handmade cheeses. The restaurant will feature a "first-of-its-kind" Wine & Cheese Bar, with a professional fromager offering expert pairings of the cheese and wine.

The Artisanal Table will be an upscale pizzeria, tapas, and wine bar in more of a relaxed atmosphere.

Astisnal Brasserie will occupy 8,945 sq. ft., and The Artisanal Table will be a bit more intimate at 1,298 sq. ft.  Both are set to open in September of this year.

Washington Square Announces Lease to Own Program

In difficult financial times, builders are always looking for creative solutions for both themselves and their customers. Washington Square announced today the option of “Experience Washington Square.” This opportunity gives customers the chance to live in a Washington Square condominium, before locking in to purchasing a unit.

The program lets buyers lease homes for 6-12 months, with an option to purchase anytime while occupying the home. At the end of 6 or 12 months, customers have the option of either walking away with no strings attached or using 6 months of the money they've paid

 towards a down payment. For those interested in inquiring about this offer, you are encouraged to contact Washington Square.

At Washington Square, about 70% of Tower 1 is sold and 30% of Tower 2.

---

Update: Rent's range from $1,735 - $4,600.  The $1,735 in rent would get you a 808 sq. ft. one bedroom home for $530,000.