Seattle Taps Its Inner Silicon Valley

Many communities dream of becoming the next Silicon Valley. This one is actually doing it.

Stroll through the hip Fremont District and you will sense the Valley vibe. Google recently opened a research lab here, its second in Microsoft’s backyard. Technology start-ups are sprouting up amid quirky neighborhood landmarks like a bronze statue of Lenin and the Fremont Troll, the giant concrete creature lurking beneath the George Washington Memorial Bridge.

More young companies are moving in downtown, near the art galleries and bookstores around Pioneer Square. Still others are spreading into the surrounding suburbs.

By JOHN MARKOFF

Full Story: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/08/technology/08nation.html?ex=1360213200&en=fccb436fe94954d1&ei=5124&partner=permalink&exprod=permalink