Today, Rainier Valley is the most culturally and economically diverse city in the Pacific Northwest. The Rainier Valley was initially occupied by Native Americans, and was settled by white explorers in 1850. The Valley has undergone many changes as industries have come and gone however it has always been a diverse area and home to the many immigrant populations entering Seattle. In recent years, transportation improvements have both helped and hurt the Valley; most notably the completion of I-5 in the 1960’s, the renovation of I-90 in the 1990’s, and the development of the Link Light Rail in 2009. Though the Rainier Valley has experienced a diverse and sometimes difficult history, it is home to several strong communities that remain active in the area’s development.