It's A New (Old) Song: Rainier Tower Gets Its Name Back

SEATTLE - Security Pacific Tower, the skyscraper that appears to balance on an 11-story pedestal at the corner of Fifth Avenue and University Street, has a new name: Rainier Tower.

It's nearly come full circle.

The building was called Rainier Bank Tower when it was initially occupied by Rainier Bancorp. from 1977 to 1989. Security Pacific Bank acquired Rainier Bank, leading to the name change; but it in turn was acquired by Bank of America/Seafirst, which moved out years ago. Numerous other tenants now occupy the building.

University of Washington regents voted to change the name yesterday because the UW, which has always owned the building, now also holds its major lease.

Despite all the changes in bank names, Seattleites have commonly referred to the tower by its original name. The building was designed by Minoru Yamasaki.