Seattle needs a new transportation leader

Greg Spotts, the head of the Seattle Department of Transportation, has announced his resignation to focus on family, closing a chapter marked by both achievements and setbacks. His most notable accomplishment was guiding a $1. 45 billion transportation levy to victory in November, a critical funding source for the city's infrastructure. However, his leadership was overshadowed by significant issues, including construction mistakes in the RapidRide G project and persistent traffic safety concerns. Seattle, while relatively safe for pedestrians, has not met its "Vision Zero" goal, with pedestrian fatalities remaining between 16 to 20 annually.

Compounding these issues are the challenges in accurately tracking traffic deaths, which require collaboration among various city departments. Small projects, such as the installation of "Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons," often take years to complete, reflecting systemic inefficiencies. Spotts's departure leaves Mayor Bruce Harrell with the urgent task of appointing a successor capable of tackling these pressing transportation challenges. The city now awaits a leader who can effectively address the ongoing issues of traffic safety and infrastructure development.