Tourists aren’t the only ones buzzing over Seattle’s new waterfront.

Restaurateurs, retailers and other entrepreneurs are also scrambling for a piece of the action in a neighborhood transformed by the replacement of an antiquated elevated freeway with tree-lined boardwalks and a soaring pedestrian bridge.

Leasing inquiries have surged since the Overlook Walk debuted in October and began funneling foot traffic to the waterfront from Pike Place Market. Even on the east side of Alaskan Way, where many storefronts stood vacant for years, “Coming Soon” signs are slowly appearing.

“We put in an offer and moved forward as quickly as we could,” says Andy Gundel, co-owner of Ballard-based Urban Family Brewing, who leased a large space across from Pier 54 after visiting the waterfront late last y

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