On Sunday, May 3, the rhythmic sound of the Puget Sound waves will provide the soundtrack for a community-driven journey as Feet First hosts a 3.8-mile waterfront walk through West Seattle. Starting at 10 a.m. near the swings at Lincoln Park parking lot #2, participants will join volunteer Liz Steen for a trek that showcases the natural beauty of the coastline while highlighting the vital work of Washington State’s primary pedestrian-advocacy nonprofit.

A Scenic Journey Along the Water

The walk is designed to be accessible and engaging, traversing mostly flat terrain over approximately 90 minutes. The route takes walkers past several iconic local landmarks, including Lowman Beach, Me-kwa-Mooks Park, Constellation Park, and the Charles Richey Sr. viewpoint. Those with a keen eye might even spot Orcas in the Sound before the group reaches its destination at Alki Beach Park.

The event is informal and open to all; no registration is necessary, and community members are encouraged to join the group at any point along the way. After reaching Alki, walkers can grab lunch together before either retracing their steps to Lincoln Park or arranging a ride back.

More Than Just a Walk

While the scenic views are a major draw, the event serves as a gateway to the broader mission of Feet First. Despite what the name might suggest, the organization is neither a shoe store nor a podiatry clinic. Instead, it is a dedicated statewide nonprofit focused on making communities safer, healthier, and more walkable through advocacy and policy work.

Feet First plays a critical role in Washington’s infrastructure by:

• Advocating for Pedestrian Safety: They push for laws and funding that improve access to Sound Transit stations and support initiatives like Safe Routes to School.
• Conducting Walkability Audits: Trained volunteers and staff lead audits to identify physical barriers such as unsafe crossings, poor lighting, or improper signal timing, working directly with local leaders to implement fixes.
• Providing Resources: The organization produces "Neighborhoods on Foot" maps and other tools to help residents navigate their communities with confidence.

Building Community, One Step at a Time

Through programs like the Neighborhood Walking Ambassadors and Jane’s Walks, Feet First transforms a simple physical activity into a tool for community engagement and urban improvement. By coordinating "Walking School Buses" and walk-to-school celebrations, they ensure that the next generation of Seattlites can move through their neighborhoods safely.

Whether you are looking for a guided tour of the West Seattle waterfront or want to learn how to advocate for better sidewalks in your own neighborhood, the May 3 walk offers the perfect opportunity to put your "feet first" into community action