Seattle's transportation landscape has seen transformative changes under the leadership of recently departed SDOT Director Greg Spotts. Having taken the helm in September 2022, Spotts bid his final adieu on February 3rd after driving a series of noteworthy initiatives aimed at modernizing the city's transportation network. "I am excited to pass the baton to the next leader of SDOT, an agency which now has the plans and the resources to maintain and modernize Seattle’s streets and bridges," Spotts told the SDOT blog in his parting statement.
As traffic safety appeared to be inexorably entwined with Spotts' directive from day one, he championed the Vision Zero program aiming to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries. The initiative birthed 22 strategies and over 80 actionable items. Furthermore, Spotts was recognized for increasing the city's project pace, with the 'fast and flavorful' approach leading to the groundbreaking of over 180 projects to maintain and update infrastructure.
Another one of Spotts' legacies is the unanimous approval of the Seattle Transportation Plan by the Seattle City Council in 2024, envisioning a 20-year roadmap for sustainable and equitable travel modes throughout the city. This plan came in tandem with the successful passage of the 2024 Transportation Levy, a $1.55 billion package geared toward bolstering the city's transport framework, according to the SDOT blog which found favor with over 66 percent of voters.
Spotts leaves behind a strengthened SDOT ready for the interim leadership of Deputy Mayor Adam Emery, starting February 4. During his time, Spotts managed to secure approximately $185 million in various grants, increased traffic safety with more no-turn-on-red intersections, and bolstered pedestrian and cyclist safety. His tenure not only focused on big-ticket projects but also reached significant milestones such as the distribution of free ORCA cards and substantial Safe Routes to School upgrades, affirming his commitment to building a better-connected, safer Seattle.
