U District, Let’s Go officially kicked off programming earlier this month. “We decided to kick things off with a transportation focused walk around the neighborhood.” Said Miriam Castro, Program Manager with U District, Let’s Go. “We are all pedestrians at some point during our journey, whether we take transit, drive or ride a bicycle.” Upwards of twenty five interested U District residents, visitors and supporters met at the U District Neighborhood Farmers Market to learn more about the new program. Seattle City Councilmember Rob Johnson led the walk and fielded questions, concerns and ideas for improvement from the group.

“When planning the route, there was no shortage of mobility related things to see, from wayfinding signs, protected bicycle lanes, artwork at bus stops and yard signs from SDOT’s Vision Zero program, reminding cars to slow down.” Said Castro. “The corner of NE 47th St and Brooklyn Ave NE is a great example of the U District’s past, present and future.” She said. “There are two empty lots, one of which will be multistory apartment building, in the distance you can see Link light rail construction and across the street are community cornerstones like churches and businesses. The neighborhood is undergoing significant change.”

Along the route the group talked with Kate Barr, Executive Director at Scarecrow Video. Barr talked about the impacts of transportation decisions to small businesses on Roosevelt Way NE. U District, Let’s Go is working with businesses like Scarecrow to help them navigate changes. “I’ve already had great conversations with local business owners, residents and people working here and I am excited to keep that momentum going. The UW Daily even wrote about us so the word is getting out!” Said Castro.

If you were not able to make the walk, don’t worry U District, Let’s Go is planning events throughout the year from ORCA LIFT enrollment and commute planning opportunities at local coffee shops and events for the local businesses and residents.

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