No Parking Signs In Record Time

SDOT put up new no-parking signs in a record-breaking 14 days after the public was notified in an email that made it clear the signs were a fait accompli. This happened at a public streetend that has enjoyed public parking for decades. That’s remarkably swift compared to the typical months-long the process, which allows time for ample public notice and community input. One wonders why. The public is left to read between the lines.

An email to the City from a Hidden Beach regular does a concise job of asking all the right questions:

Thank you, Alyse.

I still have significant concerns about this "curbspace management" decision, which appears to prioritize one neighbor's complaints over DECADES of established community use at Hidden Beach. This location has served as a drop-off and parking area for at least 35 years based on my personal experience, with many others able to attest to even longer historical use.

I'm particularly troubled by the safety implications of relocating the drop-off zone to an active street with traffic, rather than maintaining the current location near trees and away from vehicle flow. This change seems to create greater safety risks while accommodating one neighbor's preference for exclusive control over that space and their desire to eliminate community access.

Most concerning is the complete absence of community input in this decision-making process. SDOT's "curbspace management" approach has bypassed any consultation with the residents and families who have relied on this access point for generations.

This decision feels arbitrary and inequitable, prioritizing individual complaints over established community needs and public safety. I would appreciate clarification on how this aligns with the city's stated commitment to community engagement and evidence-based transportation planning. Looking at SDOT's website these two bullet points of SDOT's stated goals seem especially relevant….

Safety: Lead with safety 

Goal: Prioritize safety for travelers in Seattle, with no serious injury or fatal crashes 

Equity: Transportation justice is central 

Goal: Co-create with community and implement restorative practices to address transportation-related inequities 

Given all of the above and SDOT's stated goals, it's truly disheartening that this appears to be SDOT's approach when responding to a community that cares so deeply about preserving access to this special place that has meant so much to so many families over the decades.