The Blade
Also known as “The Blade”, a stretch of 3rd Avenue in Seattle, Washington, USA in 2022 is notorious for drugs, crime, and violence. The issues are not constrained to 3rd-only, and permeate many sidewalks throughout downtown.
Efforts are underway by city leadership to address the issues. A large amount of the opioid fentanyl has flowed into the state of Washington, which comprises a portion of the current problems. Progress is apparent, as-of late-2022, in reducing the visibility of the crises.
Third Ave between Pike and Pine Streets has seen violence for many years. It may be a surprise that stabbings, shootings, and drug use occur in this otherwise mostly calm and tranquil city.