In the tourist areas of Seattle, sidewalks are in a generally good state of repair, with curb ramps at most intersections. Unfortunately, the steep grade of some streets will be prohibitive to users of manual wheelchairs, many power wheelchairs and those who have difficulty walking.
According to the Seattle Department of Transportation, the steepest city street, Northwest 60th between 2nd and 3rd Avenues, is rated at a 28% slope grade. In the Central Business District where many tourists eat, drink and stay, six different street sections have a grade of 10% or greater.
In some cases, the steeper streets can be avoided by traveling 1-2 blocks to either side of them. The accessible city bus system is also an excellent way to climb the more difficult hills within the city.
For more information on the most difficult streets to access if you are in a wheelchair or have difficulty walking, visit www.seattle.gov to read the Seattle DOT’s report on the city’s steep streets.
