Just in time for the nine-day Alaskan Way Viaduct closure, Mayor Mike McGinn unveiled on Monday an upgrade to the city’s Traveler’s Information Map that adds cameras streaming live for 12 locations across Seattle. This is a pilot program that allows viewers to see real-time video of traffic conditions. The mayor also announced the activation this week of a new traffic responsive corridor on Aurora Avenue N, adding to the four currently operating, which will automatically sense traffic conditions and adjust signal timing for better flow. These are among many improvements collectively taken to keep people, goods and services moving through Seattle, as construction on the south end of the Alaskan Way Viaduct gets underway this Friday.
We consider the camera upgrade to be a pilot program while we monitor the impacts to the city’s internet service. If it’s successful, the city will continue this feature beyond the viaduct closure.
So… where are these cameras located?
- West Seattle Bridge Deck
- Lake City Way NE and NE 125th St
- West Seattle Bridge at Delridge
- 15th Ave NW and NW Market St
- Boren Ave and Madison St
- Montlake Ave NE and 25th Ave NE
- Northgate Way N and 5th Ave N
- Aurora Ave N and N 87th St
- E Marginal Way S and S Hanford St
- Rainier Ave S and S Henderson St
- Aurora Ave N and Aloha St
- Rainier Ave S and S Dearborn St
SR 99 section between the West Seattle Bridge and the Battery Street Tunnel will be closed for nine full days from 7:30 p.m. Friday, October 21, through 5 a.m. Monday, October 31, for demolition and construction work, leaving drivers without one of the city’s two north-south freeways.
The City of Seattle, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), King County Metro Transit and the Port of Seattle have been working in concert to share information with the public and to urge drivers to consider alternate modes of transportation for their trips around the Puget Sound. Take the bus or train, walk, bicycle, carpool, vanpool, work from home, or work hours other than nine to five. Delay, reschedule or combine discretionary trips. Both drivers and transit users should plan ahead to avoid significant traffic disruptions.
During the closure, bike and pedestrian routes will remain open, although streets will be more crowded. Heavy emphasis will be placed on ‘Sharing the Road’ during this time. Drivers will be asked to be aware, generous and patient. Bicyclists should wear helmets and ride predictably and visibly.