SEATTLE — The Seattle Department of Transportation shared new plans Wednesday for creating a safer and smoother commute for those in downtown Seattle this year.
In the blog post, city staff promised to repave downtown's iconic Third Avenue this year, specifically in areas that include cracks, potholes and uneven surfaces. They also plan to make upgrades to Third Avenue bus stops, sidewalks and lighting. Plus, they vowed to extend the avenue's bus corridor a few blocks south to Stewart St.
But this is not the only thing local leaders say will make the commute safer. Leaders of the Downtown Seattle Association (DSA) are actively reminding people about their free SafeWalk Service, funded by the Metropolitan Improvement District.
“We do have uniforms, and we do stand out," said Sam Dick, a downtown ambassador with the DSA. "It is, in my opinion, you know, giving more people a sense of security."
Police data shows that in recent years, crimes like assault, pick-pocketing or purse-snatching happen more frequently in downtown Seattle as temperatures start to get warmer.
The goal of the SafeWalk Service, according to Dick, is to make people feel comfortable in the downtown area, including visitors.
“It builds more confidence and just being around town," he said.
Seven days a week, people can call (206) 441-3303 to request a free safety escort, but only from 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
"We try and get there in 20 minutes," he said. For this reason, the association recommends planning ahead.
Only about 35 people per month are using it right now, according to the association. While the service has been around for decades, they still are hoping people will give SafeWalk a try if they haven't before.