SDOT staff planting the tree
Susie Stephens was a bright burst of energy in this world, committed creator of livable communities, bicyclist, environmentalist and world traveler. She was known for her quotes that many of us still take to heart such as “Today’s lesson: If you don’t like where you are, pedal,” or “Potholes are a pain for drivers, but they can be death for a cyclist.”
Susie’s life was tragically cut short in 2002 while legally walking across the street during a biking and walking conference.
Cards and notes celebrating Susie
In celebration of Susie’s life and hope for the future, SDOT staff and friends and family of Susie planted a tree on May 17 at the gateway to the Burke Gilman Trail at Golden Gardens Park. Attendees also remembered Susie and her mission by attaching notes and remembrances to the tree.
This tree is part of the international effort to honor Susie by creating “The Susie Forest” by planting one tree at a time. Seattle’s first “Susie Tree” was planted in 2008 at a stop for the Seattle Streetcar. Susie’s forest and her mission continue to grow.
Thank you, Susie.
Attendees at tree planting ceremony