Redmond architect has plans for old City Hall site

The city of Redmond is continuing to revitalize its downtown core, and there could be big changes coming to the old City Hall site.

Over the summer, the Redmond Urban Renewal Agency asked for proposals. Bill Schertzinger, an architect and longtime Redmond resident, had some initial ideas. The process is in its first stages, but Urban Renewal Chuck Arnold said Tuesday that Schertzinger’s plans align with what they’re looking for.

“It would be mixed-use, large scale three to four-story building with a parking and fitness facility, (and) commercial (use),” Arnold said. “It’s a very exciting and grand project for Redmond, and that’s why our committee and the city is interested in hearing more about it.”

Schertzinger’s vision includes about 100 residential units, which would have their own parking spaces. It also adds 10 additional public spaces, and there would be retail space for businesses.

People living or working in downtown Redmond said they would like to see some additions to the area.

“If you talk about marketing a city as having retail, dining and shopping, then you need to back that up,” Suzanne Tarbet said. “We’re blessed with some great restaurants downtown here, but we really lack the retail and shopping experience.”

“We’d love to see more restaurants, more stores,” Paige Matthews said. “I would love to see something like a market, just a lot of businesses that people can gather in. I think increasing a sense of community would be great here.”

Schertzinger said he’s talked to many surrounding businesses and neighbors and they’re on board with his vision.

The City Council and Downtown Urban Renewal Agency decided in a meeting Tuesday night to send an exclusive right to negotiate agreement to legal counsel for a final draft. It will be finalized at the December city council meeting.