Council Roundup: Bellevue gets World Cup-ready

Published October 10 2025

Also, hazard mitigation plan and proclamations recognizing Indigenous peoples, infant loss and Walk and Roll to School Day

The City Council Tuesday learned about the city's preparations for an influx of soccer fans from around the world staying at hotels and other lodgings in Bellevue next summer, while Seattle hosts six World Cup games.

Visit Bellevue Washington projects that 15,000 visitors will visit Bellevue during the tournament, expected to generate up to $23 million in economic impact. Recognizing that many of those tourists will use light rail to get around, Bellevue's Economic Development team plans to support World Cup-themed celebrations along the 2 Line corridor.

Small businesses, local artists, cultural organizations and entrepreneurs with the best ideas for activations that will entertain visitors and locals alike will receive funding and assistance. Celebrations will take place on all the Seattle match days. On in-between days, curated tourism trails will be advertised.

Community Development Director Emil King said the idea is to establish protocols and destinations along the Grand Connection that can be Eastside attractions for years to come. Details are available in the agenda materials.

Hazard Mitigation Plan presented

Staff from the Office of Emergency Management presented the city's first formal Hazard Mitigation Plan to the council. The plan, to be updated every five years, identifies potential natural hazards for Bellevue such as earthquakes, floods and wildfires, and sets actions the city can take to reduce related risks.

The plan-drafted over two years with input from city staff, response partners and community members-is designed to help individuals and communities prepare for potential disasters and lower the likelihood of property damage, injury or death. In a related effort, the city also drafted a disaster debris management plan, which involves making arrangements in advance with haulers.

The council voted unanimously to have the plan presented for approval at a future meeting. Details about the presentation are available in the agenda materials.

Three proclamations issued

The council issued proclamations for Indigenous Peoples' Day, Walk and Roll to School Dayand Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.