SPD Presence in Little Saigon (Photo by John Liu)
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell made an impromptu visit to the Chinatown International District (CID) on February 19.
When asked about his visit, he told Northwest Asia Weekly, “My personal and professional commitment is to make sure we make sustainable changes in Seattle to keep our community safe and clean. I want people to be housed and Treatment, Seattle is proud of the state of its residents and community.”
Harrell’s visit comes a day after the Seattle Police Department’s (SPD) mobile precinct at 12th Avenue and South Jackson Street in Little Saigon.
A storefront near the intersection of 12th and Jackson is now clean and litter free. (Photo by John Liu)
Business owners and residents have long complained about this crossroads – where crime, drugs and stolen goods are rampant. Several shootings were also reported at the intersection.
Police Chief Adrian Diaz said: “Since the beginning of 2022, the SPD has carried out multiple operations that have resulted in the arrest of multiple arrests that have been looting the surrounding communities of 12th and South Jackson for months. Over the past week, SPD officers have provided a very visible presence that will continue for the foreseeable future. We understand how detrimental continued criminal activity is to residents, businesses and community leaders in this community, and the SPD is committed to continuing Working with city partners to help keep the area safe.”
SPD found along 12th Avenue (photo by John Liu)
King County Metro has also moved a bus stop from 12th and Jackson to a different location across the street for increased safety.
The Little Saigon community hosts monthly community cleanups, one of which takes place on March 5th. Event coordinators expect 50 to 100 participants per month.
