New laws limit big box stores in Seattle's historic maritime and industrial zones

Driving the news: The legislation — signed by the mayor on July 25 — is the first major overhaul of the city's maritime and industrial policies in 35 years.

• It primarily affects the industrial areas near the Duwamish River and in the Interbay neighborhood between Queen Anne and Magnolia.
• The city's industrial zones account for 12% of Seattle's geographic footprint and about 15% of its jobs, according to the city.

Details: The recently adopted changes divide industrial lands into three different zones: one reserved for port and rail activity, another that will allow research, design, technology and light industry and a third focused on businesses like breweries and art spaces.

The intrigue: Among the first casualties of the new zoning laws was a proposal to build up to 900 housing units along 1st Avenue South and Occidental, between Edgar Martinez Drive and Massachusetts.

• Approval of the Makers District would have required the city to allow housing in the industrial area around the city's stadiums which did not happen.

What they're saying: "Our history as a maritime city is priceless," Council President Debora Juarez said following the vote. "We've all worked hard to maintain that structure, that identity and the sensibilities of Seattle being a port city."