The Access Seattle Construction Hub Coordination Program is a new effort to limit mobility impacts from multiple simultaneous construction projects in close proximity–otherwise known as hubs. With unprecedented levels of development underway in Seattle maintaining access can be challenging. The hub team is making progress incrementally, across all travel modes. Site coordinators bring together leads from all public and private projects in a hub to encourage:
- Pedestrian detours to the opposing sidewalk at the nearest crossing;
- Advanced warning signs for closures and detour signs ; and
- Walkthrough scaffolding, to provide overhead protection and full-time ped access
Walkthrough scaffolding newly installed along Harrison St. near 9th
The idea is to limit mobility impacts while helping the work get done safely and efficiently. Solutions like walkthrough scaffolding help contractors as well, providing overhead storage space. And detour signs showing specifically where to cross can improve safety and keep construction moving without interruption.
An example of recent hub work to coordinate pedestrian traffic is the newly installed walkthrough scaffolding along Harrison Street, in South Lake Union. The hub team worked with the contractor on construction at 400 9th Avenue to arrive at the solution. Development has created challenges in the area so more coordination is underway.
The Construction Hub Coordination Program is new this year from the Access Seattle Initiative, but it’s off to a running start (as pedestrian pathways allow…). Results from work by the small but nimble team can be seen in Capitol Hill and South Lake Union and West Seattle and in growing areas across the city. If you have questions about the program:
Email SDOTConstructionHub@seattle.gov or
Visit www.seattle.gov/transportation/hub.htm
P.S. For more on pedestrian access during construction and the Access Seattle Hub team effort, view the 11.26.2014 KING 5 TV “Solution to closed sidewalks? Open communication“ story.