Hi Bob,
There is a paid lot that's less than a block away. As you exit the building head down the hill to the first intersection and head left. It's half way down the block on the right.
I'm not aware of any of the locals that ever use this lot though (I bus or walk, depending on how lazy I feel). Most of them find free parking in the surrounding blocks with a little persistence.
As far as neighborhood, well I've lived in a lot worse. As long as your mini cases aren't visible you'll probably be alright. If your cases are visible they're often mistaken for gun cases and you're chance of being robbed dramatically increases. Bu that's true just about anywhere...
Darren's a good guy and the regulars there are pretty good guys overall, bu then I might be biased

I'm usually there Friday nights so if you're around ask Darren to point "Swoop" out. He'll know who you mean.
Welcome to Seattle.
Swoop!