Richard Dyksterhuis, Tireless Community Improvement Advocate 1927 – 2020
We in the Broadview – Bitter Lake Community will miss our friend Richard Dyksterhuis, and we are inspired by him to continue to press for safety improvements in our community. Richard used his outgoing, articulate sense of humor to advocate for pedestrian safety and sidewalks. The improvements to Linden Avenue North that were completed in 2013 would not have happened without his efforts to convince the City of Seattle of the need to make Linden safe for the thousands of people who live and walk there.
He also advocated for a permanent lid to the Bitter Lake Reservoir, that would open up more park space for the community. That is a project that still needs to happen, and would be a way to commemorate Richard’s community caring.
Richard was also an advocate to add sidewalks to Aurora Ave. North. Another project that still needs to happen.
Here are some links to online articles about Richard’s activities.
Youtube video of letter to City Council in 2007.
Article from Feet First about Richard’s efforts to improve Linden Ave. N.
Article from Seattle Times about improving safety on Aurora Ave. N.
You get the picture why Richard was so important to our community. May we be inspired to emulate him.
Richard was inspirational in my life. Got me involved with our community. He also was the first donor to support BroadviewSeattle neighborhood news. He felt it was important to communicate and get community involved in projects. I will truly miss him.