On Saturday, October 30 more than forty Seattle residents picked up litter, painted out graffiti and removed invasive plants along 23rd and Union streets. The event marked the kick off of a 90-day SPD inspired project designed to eliminate blight and diffuse crime at this well travelled intersection.
The Seattle Police Department partnered with other City Departments, local property owners, community groups, Casey Foundation, Seattle Neighborhood Group and Feet First to remove more than four-thousand, one hundred-thirty pounds (4,130) of green debris and litter. Community participants included Jean Tinnea, Tom Bangasser, Derryl Durden and Ian Eisernberg. East Precinct Commander James Dermody spoke at opening ceremonies and painted out graffiti.
Seattle Parks and Recreation, Seattle Office of City Auditor, Seattle Department of Transportation, the Department of Correction, Seattle Department of Neighborhoods and Seattle Public Utilities also assisted in the effort. In coming weeks, the “Safer Union” project will hold mini-cleanups and other community building activities.