SDOT continues to work with residents to help them create a Play Street in their neighborhood. Under this pilot program, residents can apply to close one block of street to traffic so the kids (and adults) can have more space to play. It’s just what it sounds like. With a free permit, you can temporarily close your street to traffic so that you and your neighbors can go out and play in the street.
Play streets provide more space for kids (and adults) to play and be physically active. So far this year, SDOT has had 34 total Play Streets events – 21 which are recurring and 13 that were just one time events.
Play streets can be hosted by schools, community groups, or neighbors. School-organized play streets provide additional space for recess or other special activities, like a field day. Community/neighborhood play streets help neighbors create more space for play during the summer or after school. Almost any non-arterial street can be a play street as long as it is not longer than one block and does not include an intersection.
Many cities across the country have Play Streets, including New York City. This program will give kids of all ages more space to be active and they support FUN for everyone! For information on how you can create a Play Street please visit their webpage or contact Diane Walsh at diane.walsh@seattle.gov, (206) 386-4575.