Seattle mayor proposes car-free days
10:42 PM PDT on Tuesday, July 29, 2008
By TRICIA MANNING-SMITH / KING 5 News
SEATTLE – As part of Seattle's campaign to combat global warming, Mayor Greg Nickels plans car-free days throughout the city.
He has enlisted the help of a group of eco-friendly moms to make his latest environmental push forward.
Exact details about car-free days and locations will be revealed at the mayor's press conference Wednesday morning, but one of Seattle's favorite beach communities is expected to top the list.
On some days you can't find a parking space at Alki Beach, but on one upcoming day people may have Alki all to themselves.
"On Sunday, September 7, from 12 to 6 p.m., they're going to shut down all the streets," said Abby Suplizio, Coolmom.org. "Shutting down the street will show people that there are other ways to enjoy your community. You don't need to use a car to get there."
The women with the group Coolmom.org support the mayor's expected ban on cars from a section of Alki for one afternoon. Bicyclists will be allowed.
"It starts to make them realize that there are other modes of transit, whether it be ferry or bus or even train getting to Seattle," said Laura Elfline, Coolmom.org.
The mayor will disclose the exact locations and dates for three car-free days around Seattle in August and September.
In Alki, one lane will remain open for local residents.
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CoolMom.org
A spokesman with Seattle's Department of Transportation says it's considering adding extra buses, but cannot make guarantees due to expense and capacity issues.
But will a car-free day have lasting impact in the fight against global warming?
"I suppose it might bring it out in peoples' consciousness, but as to any practical effect, I'm highly skeptical," said Evelyn Sroufe, Alki resident.
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