Have you noticed the beautiful new sidewalk on 19th Avenue East, across from the Country Doctor clinic and a block north from the Miller Community Center? Paving crews from the Seattle Department of Transportation recently replaced the sidewalk which had been cracked by tree roots.

SDOT crews moved the sidewalk further from the street and widened it, and also widened the planting strip to give the trees more room to grow. (Note: see before and after photos, attached.) While working in the neighborhood, crews also made temporary spot sidewalk repairs at a few other trouble spots on 19th Avenue E.

This work was funded by the Bridging the Gap transportation initiative approved by Seattle voters in 2006 and is funded through 2015. Unfortunately, sidewalk repair needs greatly outweigh funds, making it necessary for us to prioritize repairs where we can make the most impact. For the most part, these are along arterial streets with bus stops or access to schools, or destination facilities. We also look for opportunities to partner with residential property owners when we are in the area and when we can leverage repairs through cost sharing.

Sidewalk safety concerns can be reported to SDOT by calling 684-ROAD or using the on-line reporting form at http://www.seattle.gov/transportation/potholereport.htm

For information: (206) 684-7583

Media contact: Marybeth Turner, (206) 684-8548