SODO Neighborhood, Seattle -- Thursday, August 10th, Feet First collaborated with the SODO Business Association, the Duwamish Transportation Management Association and other area businesses and organizations to give a walking tour of a few critical areas affecting those walking in and around the SODO neighborhood. The area highlighted during the walk is an important pedestrian corridor for access to transit as well as the future light rail station.

Over 60 people joined the walk and shared their views on everything from crossing 1st Avenue to getting trucks around corners.  Bringing all stakeholders together to look at conditions made this a first of a kind event in this neighborhood.

A walking audit is a tool enabling community members to examine walkability in their environment that includes: identifying assets, barriers and needed safety improvements for a healthy pedestrian environment to access transit, work, shopping and other community activities.

The goals of the audit are to increase walkability in the SODO community, improve the existing pedestrian environment, create a safe co-existence among vehicles, freight and pedestrians, and to build community among businesses and employees in the area.

The walking audit traveled 1st Avenue South from S Walker Street, continued to South Stacy and South Lander and to the Sound Transit station/E3 busway, and returned to 1st Avenue S, ending at Lander Street. The walking route was approximately 1.2 miles.

A final report of the audit will be published. Copies can be obtained by contacting the Feet First office, at 206.652.2310, or emailing info@feetfirst.info.