Ask The City – What is that Smell West of the UW Campus?

Your Question:

What is that funky smell west of campus? Is it stagnant water in gutters or the the storm sewer or is it some type of tree in bloom? You can smell it every couple of blocks especially between 9th and 4th streets.

The City's Answer:

There are locations where tree roots have displaced the curb and gutter allowing water to stand in the gutter.  At times, the water may become stagnant and vegetation in the water my begin to rot causing the odor.  It is often difficult to sweep these locations due to parked vehicles.  The Street Division will monitor the areas and remedy situations when possible.

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