New Trikes and Equipment Upgrades Power DSA/MID Ambassador Teams

The DSA/MID ambassador teams are rolling into fall with new tools and equipment to keep downtown welcoming and well maintained.

The fleet now includes 11 additional electric trikes — bringing the total to 50 — and seven new pressure washers mounted on service trikes. These upgrades enhance graffiti removal, biowaste response and other essential cleaning services within the 300 square downtown blocks, from Denny Way to Pioneer Square and from I-5 to the waterfront.

The trikes were purchased through San Diego-based E-Wheels Warehouse and customized with aluminum baskets to carry supplies.

“This upgrade was much needed, as many of the existing units had reached the end of their service life,” DSA/MID Director of Cleaning Services Steven Walls said. “The expanded fleet and upgraded equipment will improve the quality and efficiency of our work, reduce reliance on foot ambassadors for physically demanding tasks and support recruitment and retention by offering new ways to serve.”

From March through August, MID Clean Team ambassadors — one of three teams — tallied a combined 35,549 biohazard waste incidents; they collected more than 100,000 gallons of trash in August alone; and from June through August they removed nearly 16,000 graffiti tags and stickers.

Crucial funding from downtown property owners within the MID boundaries provides these equipment upgrades, as well as cleaning, safety and hospitality services in the center city, and the activation of multiple parks and public spaces.

“Whether it’s graffiti removal, sidewalk sweeping and flushings or helping those in need, these investments allow our 160 ambassadors to continue providing a high level of service to our members, residents and visitors 362 days a year,” Walls said.