One of the many traffic-calming options in Seattle, besides traffic circles, is to paint an intersection. The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) is holding an informational meeting about painting intersections on Saturday, Jan. 31, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Harry Thomas Community Center @ Lee House, 7315 39th Ave. S. According to SDOT:
A painted intersection (also called intersection repair) is a mural designed and painted by community groups on the pavement at the intersection of residential streets. Painted intersections help give your community a sense of place and are a great way to organize your community around a common goal. Painted intersections may encourage drivers to be more respectful of the residents while driving down your street.
At the meeting, community activist Eric Higbee will explain step-by-step how a community can work together to design and paint a residential street intersection. Eric lead the effort in his Wallingford neighborhood to create the ladybug mural in the intersection of Burke Avenue North and N. 49th St.
SDOT staff will explain the permit requirements, what assistance SDOT can offer groups, and possible funding sources for paint and supplies.
If you’re interested in attending the meeting, email Jane Rebelowski with your name and the intersection you are considering for painting. Space is limited to 40 attendees.