How will Seattle’s waterfront change when a new seawall is built? Most importantly, the aging seawall will be replaced, providing needed protection to critical infrastructure, utilities, residences, and businesses and supporting Seattle’s “front porch.”
In addition to being one of the city’s top public safety priorities, replacing the seawall presents a unique opportunity to enhance habitat and provide new opportunities for people to interact with Elliott Bay and the Puget Sound. A wide range of design possibilities are being considered, including beaches, rain gardens, restored aquatic habitat, light-permeable walkways, tide pools, short-term boat moorage, educational and interpretive elements, and more.
The Elliott Bay Seawall Project team is currently refining five concepts for additional public review and environmental analysis. The concepts show the many approaches and elements that could be part of the seawall project or other future projects. In close coordination with the city’s Central Waterfront Project and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, SDOT will present three alternatives—including a locally preferred alternative—by April 2011.
The project team is planning a public event in January 2011, but now is a great time to check out the different elements and send in comments. You can learn more about this project and submit comments at the Elliott Bay Seawall Project website.
