SDOT begins removing barricades, toilets from CHOP area
Jun 30, 2020, 9:54 AM | Updated: 2:10 pm
Seattle Department of Transportation crews showed up at the Capitol Hill Occupied Protest (CHOP) area Tuesday morning, removing several barricades from surrounding streets.
According to KIRO 7’s Deedee Sun, crews were “working fast” when they arrived, alongside “at least a dozen officers” providing support and security.
All that’s left of the barricade/#CHOP border at 10th and Pine. pic.twitter.com/DMu3nftk4J
— Nicole Jennings (@nicoleKIROFM) June 30, 2020
Concrete barricades at 10th and Pine were completely cleared. Seattle Assistance Police Chief Adrian Diaz informed media that there are no plans at this time to remove barriers positioned directly in front of the East Precinct.
Protesters quickly began moving couches, garbage cans, and wood planks to areas where concrete barriers had previously stood.
Signs were also posted denoting that Cal Anderson Park would be temporarily closed at 12 p.m. Tuesday. Around that time, crews began removing temporary sinks and portable toilets.
Seattle Parks and Recreation announced the temporary closure of Cal Anderson Park to the public will allow crews to assess damage and clean up areas where trash and litter has collected. No changes will be made to the gardens or art installed by demonstrators. Read more from the parks department here.
Unless there are any incidents, SPD is not expected to be at Cal Anderson Park.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
