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Memorial walk to honor woman struck and killed by truck on First Hill

10590411_664654093617853_3286561185982884768_nOn July 21st a Cleanscapes truck driver struck and killed Rebecca Scollard,42, in broad daylight as she crossed 8th and James — an intersection known to be among the most dangerous pedestrian crossings in the city.

A memorial walk on Wednesday morning will honor the life of the Capitol Hill resident and seek to bring awareness to pedestrian safety issues. The walk is sponsored by Seattle Neighborhood Greenways, which has committed to organizing memorials whenever a person is killed walking or biking in the city. Following the walk, city representatives will hold a meeting to discuss how to make streets safer for pedestrians.

Witnesses at the scene of the collision told police that a large commercial truck struck Scollard and did not stop. Police later identified the driver.

Details from the event’s Facebook page:

The Memorial Walk for Rebecca Scollard will begin at 9:30 am on Wednesday, August 13 with a gathering in front of St. James Cathedral on 9th Avenue. We will carry signs and walk quietly to the site of Rebecca’s death at 9th and James, where we will hear a few words from people who knew and cared for Rebecca. Singer/songwriter Jim Page will offer a song or two, friends of Rebecca and City representatives will be asked to say few words.

After the Memorial Walk, we will move to Ozanam House at 801 9th Ave. to debrief and discuss ways that safety for people who walk, bike and use transit can be improved along James Street. We want to focus on the needs of the vulnerable people who live and obtain services in this neighborhood – older adults; homeless people; people with chronic mental illness and/or substance abuse; people recovering from traumatic injuries or living with chronic disease. Ozanam House is a residence for chronically homeless men, where Rebecca was known as a valued friend.

We have planned this event in coordination with Seattle Women in Black, who hold a midday vigil in recognition of homeless people who die in Seattle. Their vigil will be held from noon to 1 in front of the Seattle Justice Center at 5th and Cherry.

Thank you very much for your dedication to a City where all can live and travel safely.

 

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cd_kathryn
cd_kathryn
9 years ago

Her name is incorrectly reported as Jessica.

David Roberts
David Roberts
9 years ago

I was not there – I am not saying this was her – but this may be noted as one of the most dangerous pedestrian intersections in Seattle because of all the people that Jay walk to cross it to get to the Food Bank at Trinity Church – People do it in Masse with complete disregard of traffic,,,, I observe this daily from my Apartment – Don’t get me wrong it is a tragic loss –

jc
jc
9 years ago
Reply to  David Roberts

The food bank is on 8th Ave. This accident happened on 9th. I see few jaywalkers there. You’re right, though, people aren’t patient with the crossing light at 8th. I’ve asked SDT to change the timing, but they won’t do it.

David Roberts
David Roberts
9 years ago
Reply to  jc

Well the news Posting above says 8th and James – Which people get off the # 3 and 4 buses and run across the street like that 2-3 minute head start is going to really get them a better selection at the food bank – Maybe Seattle should invest in some pedestrian underpasses at both 8th and 9th Aves at James – especially 9th and James which has a much notorious history which I will agree with you

Becka
Becka
9 years ago
Reply to  David Roberts

If there is a street where people regularly jaywalk, the correct solution is to create a crosswalk, ideally with curb bulbs and/or lights. That is, if you want to create a safe, walkable city.