Seattle leaders announced new efforts to address ongoing public safety concerns along Aurora Avenue North, including increased gun violence, human trafficking, and related criminal activity. Mayor Katie Wilson said the city will temporarily close several streets between 96th and 102nd avenues to reduce vehicle circulation in the area and direct additional city resources toward enforcement and support services.
Seattle City Attorney Erika Evans announced plans to pursue a new strategy aimed at removing firearms from individuals believed to be involved in trafficking and violent activity. The approach would use Extreme Risk Protection Orders, a legal tool that allows courts to temporarily restrict firearm access when someone is considered a significant safety risk.
The actions follow concerns raised by nearby residents, businesses, and community members who have called for additional measures to improve safety. City officials said the goal is to reduce violence while also connecting individuals impacted by exploitation with needed resources.
The effort represents a coordinated response among city departments and elected leaders as Seattle continues to evaluate strategies for improving public safety and addressing challenges affecting businesses, workers, and neighborhoods.
