Pothole repair claims increase on Mayor McGinn’s watch

It appears Seattle’s pothole problem is getting worse.

Since Mayor Mike McGinn took office a year-and-a-half ago, almost three times as many drivers have submitted claims for pothole related damages to their autos.

According to records obtained by the Seattle Weekly, the percentage of claims paid by the city has increased slightly less than that. Records show the city paid out almost $90,000 in claims in the last full year.

The Seattle Transportation Department has a couple of explanations for the pothole problems, including severe winter weather and staff layoffs that cost the department 22 positions last year.

Seattle has a policy of repairing potholes within three days of receiving a complaint.