The Sparkling Wallingford Society (SWS) formed in 2025 through Seattle’s Adopt-a-Street Program. Spearheaded by Carrie Johnson, the society collects trash on NE/N 45th Street from I-5 to Stone Way. [See Wallyhood’s coverage of SWS from earlier this year.] This fall, they’re partnering with the Wallingford Chamber of Commerce to go to the next level! Here’s what Carrie posted on the Wallingford & Fremont Community Facebook page:
Terrific block party today, Sparkling Wallingford Society! We planted the bed in front of Harold’s Lighting, painted over graffiti at Yoroshiku, and tidied up the shrubs in front of Jae Hun Kim Taekwon-Do Institute. A huge thanks to our volunteers Dave, Natasha, Steve, Rhoda, Dean, Laura, and Susanne.Heartfelt thanks also to Harold’s Lighting, Swansons Nursery, Dunn Lumber, Yoroshiku, Mallory Paint, Cedarhouse Flowers, and Jae Hun Kim for supporting this effort with donations, discounts, and access to water.
This Fall’s Project: Foxtail Removal and Mulch Restoration
Foxtail grass has invaded many of the tree wells along NE/N 45th Street. It’s not just a weed! This grass can be extremely harmful to pets if the dried seeds get embedded in their fur and skin, sometimes causing painful infections that require expensive vet treatment. By removing the weed and adding barriers to the tree wells, the group will create a cleaner, healthier environment for our furry friends and a more attractive streetscape for residents and visitors alike.
This summer, the SWS surveyed NE/N 45th Street and broke it down into 31 block segments (one side of the street only), each of which has four to six tree wells. They’re asking residents to volunteer to take on a block for a one-time effort to mulch and care for the trees. Some require minimal work, while others need more (Eagle Scout project, anyone?). Fill out their volunteer form if you’d like to help!
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