New SODO Welcome Center Opens Connecting Visitors, Businesses, and Community Ahead of the 2026 World Cup
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 11, 2026
Seattle, WA — Today, the SODO Business Improvement Area (SODO BIA) announced the opening of the new SODO Welcome Center, a space designed to connect visitors, workers, and businesses with the district’s history, culture, and economic impact. The Welcome Center officially opens to the public this week following a preview open house held June 10 for SODO businesses and ratepayers.
Located at 1950 1st Avenue South, in the heart of Seattle’s SODO district, the Welcome Center will serve as an entry point for exploring the neighborhood—offering information on local businesses, public art, historic sites, and ongoing events in the area. The center is also intended to help visitors navigate the district as it prepares to welcome increased regional and international attention surrounding the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup™ matches hosted in Seattle.
“The SODO Welcome Center will tell the story of this neighborhood while showcasing the businesses and attractions that make it thrive,” said Erin Goodman, Executive Director of the SODO BIA. “With major global events on the horizon, we want visitors to feel welcomed and encouraged to explore everything SODO has to offer.”
In conjunction with the Welcome Center, the SODO BIA is launching SODO Storefront Stories, a pathway along 1st Avenue South that invites visitors to experience SODO’s history in a new, interactive way. Participating businesses will display custom window clings featuring archival photos, historical insights, and unique stories about the district’s evolution. Together, these installations create a walkable pathway through SODO, guiding visitors toward the Welcome Center while encouraging them to engage with local businesses along the way.
The project was made possible through a partnership between the SODO BIA and SeattleFWC2026, the Seattle Local Organizing Committee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, which provided additional funding and support to help prepare Seattle neighborhoods for the international spotlight the tournament will bring. An additional partnership with King County provided the space and allowed for proximity to the stadiums on 1st Avenue South.
“King County is proud to partner with SODO BIA on this exciting project that brings together community, a history of the area, and information and resources for visitors and residents alike,” said Susan McLaughlin, Acting Director of King County’s Department of Community and Human Services. “We look forward to continuing this successful partnership and building toward long-term behavioral health resources and services in the area.”
“One of the goals of SeattleFWC26 is to ensure that the benefits of FIFA World Cup 2026™ extend beyond the stadium and create lasting opportunities for neighborhoods across our region,” said Leo Flor, Chief Legacy Officer for SeattleFWC26. “The SODO Welcome Center and Storefront Stories project will help visitors connect with the businesses, history, and culture that define this neighborhood while creating a welcoming experience for fans from around the world. We’re proud to support a project that will continue serving the community long after the final whistle.”
The June 10 open house offered SODO businesses and property owners an early look at the space and an opportunity to learn how the center will promote local companies, events, and experiences. The Welcome Center will feature rotating exhibits highlighting SODO’s industrial heritage, creative community, and longstanding role as one of Seattle’s most diverse districts.
In addition to serving visitors during the World Cup, the SODO BIA expects the Welcome Center to remain a long-term resource for the neighborhood during regular local sporting events—supporting economic development, tourism, and community storytelling.
“We see the Welcome Center as an investment in SODO’s future,” Erin said. “It’s a place where people can learn about the district, discover local businesses, and understand why SODO is such a vital part of Seattle’s economy and culture.”
For more information about the SODO Welcome Center and upcoming programming, visit www.sodoseattle.org/worldcup.
About the SODO BIA:
The SODO BIA works to make SODO a cleaner, safer, more connected neighborhood through enhanced services and advocacy. Representing property owners and tenants, the BIA supports over 1,000 businesses across a wide range of industries—emphasizing transportation access, street cleanliness, and public safety.
About Seattle FIFA World Cup 26™ Local Organizing Committee:
SeattleFWC26 is the local organizing committee for Seattle’s participation as one of the 16 Host Cities selected for the FIFA World Cup 26™. As a not-for-profit organization, SeattleFWC26’s vision is to foster a lasting legacy for our region, guided by the spirit of soccer, innovation, and inclusion. To keep up to date on the latest news and involvement opportunities with SeattleFWC26, please visit www.seattlefwc26.org.
About King County Department of Community and Human Services:
The Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) reaches nearly 440,000 community members annually through services and strategic initiatives across the region. DCHS oversees behavioral health treatment, affordable housing and related services, child care resources, services for kids and families, education and employment for youth and young adults, veteran services, senior supports, and inclusive resources for people with developmental disabilities.
Media Contact:
Melissa White
Senior Communications Manager
SODO Business Improvement Area
mwhite@sodoseattle.org
206-609-6449
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