Who’s orange and obsessed with sidewalks?
SDOT’s sidewalk interns!
This summer, our interns will be hitting the streets with levels, tape measures, tablets, and bright orange safety vests to conduct a condition survey of Seattle’s sidewalks, for our SDOT Sidewalk Condition Assessment Project. Seattle has over 34,000 blocks – that’s 2,300 miles – of sidewalks. And while we track information like material, dimensions, planting strips, and curb ramps, more data is key to understanding current and future needs.
We are also reminding Seattle property owners and residents that they are responsible for adjacent sidewalks and maintaining a clear walking path at least 36” wide and 80” high.
That means property owners are responsible for:
- Trimming branches of privately owned trees that hang over sidewalks
- Clearing bushes or moss that grow into the walking path
- Sweeping gravel or other debris
- Fixing cracks or more significant damage
As a reminder, it is never okay to park on the sidewalk, or leave your recycling, compost, and garbage containers in the walking path.
If you need to complete more significant repairs involving construction or concrete, refer to SDOT’s Client Assistance Memo 2208, which covers property owner responsibilities and how to obtain a sidewalk repair permit.
Seattle is committed to pedestrian access, but with 2,300 miles of sidewalks which would cost over $5 billion to replace, we have a steep hill to climb. Help us keep Seattle one of America’s most walkable cities, and let us know if you spot an area that needs attention.
- Call our Repair Hotline at 206-386-1218.
- Use the Find It Fix It App.
- Complete a service request form.
For more information on Seattle’s Sidewalk Repair Program, see www.seattle.gov/transportation/sidewalkrepair.htm.