A new mobile app version of the City of Seattle’s #SupportPugetSoundSmallBiz map, a popular regional interactive map connecting residents with takeout and delivery options during Washington’s stay-at-home order, is now accessible via iOS and Android.
Seattle Information Technology’s Geographic Information System (GIS) team launched the free mobile app to allow swift access to the map which allows users to search for small businesses near them and find operating hours, contact information and customized links for delivery services.
After launching a Seattle-specific map in late March, municipalities from across the region reached out to Seattle IT and asked to participate. Mayor Jenny Durkan last month announced the expansion of the map. It now includes nearly 3,000 restaurants across Puget Sound, including more than a dozen cities in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. Municipalities worked with their local economic development organizations to add restaurants to the map, which is also available in a screen-reader accessible version for users who are blind or have low vision.
Since it went live, the map has logged nearly 278,000 visits, and during the first two weeks in May has averaged 1,400 views per day.
“At a time when we’re all feeling the stress and negative impacts of COVID-19, it is extremely inspiring to work in an organization where so many have pivoted to the new shared focus of responding to this crisis,” said Harvey Arnone, Seattle IT’s GIS/CAAD applications development manager.
Many restaurants offering to-go food during the coronavirus pandemic will continue to offer takeout as Washington’s economy slowly reopens. Dining rooms will remain closed until at least May 31. If public health data looks favorable, most of Washington’s 39 counties could begin the second phase of the governor’s four-part statewide reopening plan on June 1, which would allow restaurants to restart some dining.
Seattle IT continues to partner with municipalities across the Puget Sound to populate the map with businesses. To help ensure quality and consistent data, IT has created an internal map and survey that business owners can use to enter their information. If you are a business owner and want to be added to the map, please email at supportsmallbiz@seattle.gov for instructions.
The City has also created a comprehensive resource page for residents and small businesses impacted by COVID-19. The page is updated as more information becomes available.