Part 10/11:
Seattle’s efforts to beautify and placate residents with decorative lighting and public art are dissonant with the gritty reality. Downtown areas are described as resembling zombie zones, with homeless individuals openly engaging in drug use amid tourists oblivious to the chaos. Spraying graffiti and illegal dumped trash mark the streets, and attempts to combat these with lawsuits and fines seem more symbolic than impactful.
Residents and business owners voice frustration, citing ineffective policies and out-of-control disorder. Some believe the city’s lean toward progressive ideals—such as decriminalizing or not incarcerating offenders—has allowed lawlessness to flourish.