Today, Recovery Begins Anew

Today, Recovery Begins Anew

June 1, 2020
 

Dear BDA Community,

It’s a time when words do not come easily.

We’ve seen a week filled with anger at tragic reminders of injustice, along with dismay at damage done in cities across the nation, and now in our Downtown - our shops and businesses, the community spaces we know well. 

Hundreds of people filled our streets yesterday evening. Some protested lawfully, in solidarity with peaceful demands for change. Others were clearly intent on looting and mayhem. It was sad and overwhelming to watch as the latter unfolded. This moment hurts, compounded by the impacts of the pandemic.

I’m grateful for the proactive steps taken by our City leadership to protect public safety, and the professional response by officers on the frontlines. Chief Mylett led by example, putting words of reconciliation into action, and matching it with intolerance toward criminal behavior. 

We have physical and emotional pieces to pick up as we restore Downtown and mark progress for reopening. The heart of Bellevue is a very resilient place, growing and evolving in remarkable ways, thanks to years of care by many BDA members. We know there’s work to do – and it begins anew today.

Teams are assessing damage this morning; many organizations and residents are eager to lend a hand, and the BDA will lead in providing support. Please stay tuned for more details on other meaningful ways to assist.

 

Patrick Bannon
President
Bellevue Downtown Association