block party's over
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Seattle Department of Transportation Removes Eco-Blocks Designed to Prevent Encampment Return

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Block Party’s Over…Sort of

On Tuesday, the Seattle Department of Transportation (@seattledot) removed some of the “eco-blocks” near the Leary Triangle and Fremont Brewery in Ballard. But the agency says only a few were taken out because it’s time to re-open this piece of land that’s expected to be turned into a dog park. Otherwise, no sign of any other slabs of concrete being removed by the city even though it’s technically a violation. These were quickly put up all over Ballard to prevent tents and RV’s from moving in. But as you can tell, this part of #Seattle is still dealing with the homeless crisis. How soon until tents start moving back in? It really is turning into whack a mole out here. @CMDanStrauss @MayorofSeattle @GovInslee @kcexec @KCCouncil @SeattleCouncil @CMSaraNelson @CMTMosqueda @D5Juarez @KC_RHA

Seattle Department of Transportation’s Response

At least we know the city is trying to improve this area. But will it last? #Seattle

This Past Summer

Back in June, a homeless person set up in the fenced area. But city crews quickly moved in and cleared it. Consistent enforcement will be key. #Seattle

Remember This?

I think it’s fair to say neighbors do not want a repeat of Leary Triangle encampment that was left to flourish for more than a year. #Seattle

Jonathan Choe

Journalist and Senior Fellow, Center on Wealth and Poverty
Jonathan Choe is a journalist and Senior Fellow with Discovery Institute's Center on Wealth and Poverty, covering homelessness issues for its Fix Homelessness initiative. Prior to joining Discovery, Choe spent several years as one of the lead reporters at KOMO-TV, consistently the top rated television station in Seattle. His in depth stories on crime and deep dive investigations into the homeless crisis led to measurable results in the community, including changes in public policy. Choe has more than two decades of experience in television news behind the scenes and in front of the camera for ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, and Tribune. He has also been nominated and honored with multiple industry awards including an Emmy. Choe spent several years teaching classes on emerging media and entrepreneurship to under privileged youth in inner city Chicago. As an independent journalist, Choe also contributes regularly to the Mill Creek View and Lynnwood Times and has reported on exclusive stories in the past year for Daily Wire and The Postmillennial.