Unfortunately, two dangerous pedestrian incidents occurred on Thursday, November 1 prior to the start of school at the crosswalk of 70th going into the church’s parking lot at 48th St. At one point a boy was nearly hit and just five minutes later, a mother holding her son’s hand had to stop mid cross to let a car go by. Especially on dark and foggy mornings, it can be very difficult to see pedestrians. In both these incidents, it appears the drivers were driving an appropriate speed but did not notice the pedestrians in the crosswalk.
The View Ridge Community Council, in partnership with the PTA, is continuing to advocate with the City of Seattle and Seattle Police Department to increase safety in the streets adjoining the school, especially on 70th between 47th and 50th avenues. However, everyone – drivers and pedestrians – should continue to use every safety precaution when traveling to/from school.
Drivers:
- GO SLOW in school zones, and go even slower near crosswalk areas.
- When approaching a crosswalk, pause and look from side to side before proceeding.
- Be patient with our crosswalk patrol kids and adults.
- Be cautious when turning into the church parking lot, alert to pedestrians crossing the driveway to the marked walkway.
Pedestrians:
- Always STOP before entering a crosswalk, make eye contact with the slowing cars, and do not enter a crosswalk until moving traffic has STOPPED as well.
- Always cross the street at a crosswalk, preferably one staffed by safety patrol.
Please report any close calls to the city. The city of Seattle tracks incidents, even near misses, to help prioritize safety upgrades in neighborhoods.
A big thank you to everyone for your extra vigilance during the morning rush.