Rep. Adam Smith Hosts Economic Development Roundtable with South King County City Leaders

SEATAC, WASH. – Yesterday, Congressman Adam Smith (D-Wash.) convened a roundtable discussion with economic development leaders from across South King County to discuss shared challenges and opportunities to spur job growth and infrastructure investment in the region. 

Attendees included representatives from the Cities of Seattle, Renton, Kent, Tukwila, Federal Way, Auburn, and Bellevue, and the Port of Seattle. The discussion focused on barriers to economic growth including housing affordability, workforce needs, and federal funding gaps.  

“Communities across South King County are doing innovative work to support small businesses and grow their economies,” said Congressman Smith. “But they need sustained federal partnership to build infrastructure, train workers, and address affordability challenges that hold them back. I’m committed to being that partner in Washington, D.C.” 

“Congressman Smith’s commitment to fostering regional collaboration is appreciated,” said Meredith Neal, Economic Development Director for Federal Way. “By sharing our challenges and successes, we encourage innovation and strengthen our commitment to building a prosperous future for South King County cities.”
 
“SEA is one of the largest economic drivers in Representative Smith’s Congressional district, with $33.4 billion in economic activity based on our recently released study," said Port of Seattle Commission President Toshiko Hasegawa. "At the Port of Seattle, we know that economic development take collaboration across jurisdictions, sectors, and communities to build an inclusive economy that leaves no one behind, and so we are deeply grateful to Representative Smith for his partnership and leadership on economic resilience, job creation, and equitable growth.”

“I was excited to join on behalf of the Seattle Office of Economic Development with cities across South King County at the economic development roundtable hosted by Rep. Smith," said Diem Ly, Division Director, City of Seattle Office of Economic Development. "We’re proud to be part of the great strides and progress the region is making to ensure industries, small businesses, neighborhoods, and workers grow and thrive. We appreciate Rep. Smith’s commitment and partnership to address challenges in this economic climate.”

Participants shared updates on city-led programs and discussed how upcoming federal legislation could better support local development goals. 

###