Summary

Council Chair Rod Dembowksi issued a statement on Monday following plans by the Superior Court to close the Third Avenue entrance to the courthouse over safety concerns.

Story

Council Chair Rod Dembowski is issuing the following statement concerning the closure of the Third Avenue entrance to the King County Courthouse. The decision was made via general order of Superior Court Presiding Judge James E. Rogers this afternoon (attached). Per the order, the entrance will remain closed the remainder of the year.

“I support the Superior Court’s decision to take aggressive action to protect the public and our county employees who work in and near the King County Courthouse.  I have fought to secure funding in recent years to keep the Fourth Avenue entrance open, as well as worked to activate and improve safety in City Hall Park.  I have advocated directly to Mayor Durkan to increase the City’s police presence around the courthouse.  Unfortunately, security remains a serious concern with inadequate attention and action to date. 

“I am introducing emergency legislation to appropriate necessary funding to support the work and recommendations of the court’s proposed courthouse security work group, as well as to immediately enhance safety around the courthouse, and plan for longer-term safety and security improvements to the area.”