SEATTLE - Only in Seattle could an event touted as a way to help the environment get washed out during what is supposed to be the driest time of the year.

Video: Rain washes out 'car free' day in Seattle

Larger screen

Car-free days is part of Mayor Greg Nickels' campaign to encourage people to walk, bike or take mass transit.

One neighborhood is closed off to car traffic during selected weekends this summer.

On Sunday it was the area around 14th and Republican on Capitol Hill, a residential area that's normally quiet anyway.

"I think it promotes awareness of whatever we're promoting awareness of," said resident Thomas Hubbard.

"A car passes by every once in a while, just people trying to get home. And they don't know how to get home," said resident Matt O'Connor.

"I think most people are scratching their heads. I've seen people move the signs and drive through anyway," said Hubbard.

With more police officers diverting traffic than actual people, the city decided to end the event two hours earlier.

O'Connor said the idea was good in theory, "but in practice, it needs a little bit of work."

Adding insult to injury, the cars owned by some residents in the neighborhood were towed because the city wanted to clear the streets.

Next weekend, car-free days moves to south Seattle. Rainier Avenue between Alaska and Orcas will be closed to car traffic during the afternoon.