Fight for a 2024 Seattle City Budget that aligns with progressive values!
- JoshHolland
- Oct. 13, 2023
Seattle Neighborhood Greenways is working with the Seattle Solidarity Budget Coalition to push the City Council to amend the Mayor’s proposed budget to better reflect our shared values of safety, equity, and sustainability.
2024 Seattle Solidarity Budget
This year, the Solidarity Budget platform includes three critical transportation priorities to make the budget better reflect our city’s values:
- We oppose the $3.25 million cut to Safe Routes to Schools, Vision Zero, and ADA accessibility. SDOT has promised that some Safe Routes to School projects will still be delivered by back filling with Vision Zero and ADA funds, but all three of these programs are already severely underfunded proportional to our pedestrian safety crisis. 21 people have already been killed by traffic violence so far this year, on trend to match or break last year’s record. As reported in the Seattle Times, taking away ADA funds will delay improvements on at least 117 curb ramps to help people cross the street safely.
- We support the $2 million increase for winter storm recovery. This program helps ensure people (especially disabled people, elders, and those who walk, bike, or take transit) are not stuck at home for weeks after an ice storm.
- We support the 1.5 new full time employees for the Home Zone program. Several years ago, we successfully advocated for the city to trial a Home Zone pilot program. Permanent staffing will ensure this wildly successful program continues to holistically create traffic-calmed neighborhoods, especially in areas with no sidewalks. Learn more about Home Zones here.
We also stand in support of the Solidarity Budget Coalition guarantees.
In Order to Achieve These Guarantees, We Need
- Shift funding from criminalization to invest in community needs.
- Pass new progressive revenue now.
Review the full Solidarity Budget Talking Points and Information.
Three Ways to Take Action
- Send an email to City Council.
- Participate in a Vision Zero demonstration at City Hall on Wednesday, Oct 18, 5:00 pm (in-person) during the Public Budget Hearing. RSVP to Clara@Seattlegreenways.org. Unable to make it in person? You can still comment virtually (sign up 2 hrs prior). Find talking points here.
- Share this blog post with at least 3 friends. Word of mouth is the best form of advocacy.
Save the Date
There will be additional opportunities to make public comments on October 27 at 10:00 am and November 13 at 5:00 pm. More information at the Seattle City Council website.
Never Given a Public Comment to City Council before?
Join the Solidarity Budget Coalition on Monday, Oct 16, 6:00 - 7:30 pm for a virtual public comment workshop. Email info@seattlesolidaritybudget.com for the link.