The City Council vs. The Tycoon: Remaking Seattle's Streets

In obedience to the almost unanimous wish of the people of Seattle and to the dictates of the best judgment of its members, the city council has enacted an ordinance cutting off the Yesler corner in accordance with the plan proposed by the citizens' committee. There was no dickering over compromises, no consideration of private and personal as opposed to public interest, and the result was 'the straight cut,' by which the west line of Commercial street will be extended through to Front street, striking the latter at a point a few feet south of its intersection with Cherry. Another ordinance was enacted extending South Third street as proposed by the citizens' committee, south through the Oregon Improvement Company's property. In both cases, the council did precisely what was right. The interests of the city are more important than the interests either of a single citizen or of a railroad corporation. The city will now be rebuilt upon lines adjusted to the convenience of traffic and in conformity with modern ideas, both of utility and taste. By its action last night, in practically asserting that the interests and powers of the city are greater than those of any citizen or corporation, the council has redeemed itself. There is no danger that it will not have the approval of the public.