Over the last three years in the south end of the city around SODO and stadiums area construction for the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement project has been underway. As the work progresses, city and state projects to replace the viaduct will expand work into the Pioneer Square and downtown waterfront. WSDOT has been working with the city and stakeholders to implement a plan to help local businesses and encourage shoppers to visit this area. WSDOT is opening short-term parking on Pier 48 through January 3, 2012 at $3 (plus tax) per hour for up to four hours – which is less than the cost of street parking. SDOT and WSDOT are partnering with private parking facilities to offer short-term parking at a cost of $3 per hour (plus tax). These partnerships are being negotiated and more details will be announced over the next several weeks.
Yesterday, the “Your Spot” marketing campaign was launched to advertise businesses are open during construction and parking is available. New signs will direct drivers to parking and destinations along the waterfront and to Pioneer Square. So, if using public transit is not an option for your next visit to Pioneer Square or the downtown waterfront, check out the Parking Spotter Map on the main page of the website. SDOT also offers the SDOT Cams which will help you find out traffic conditions before you go, as well as the Seattle Parking Map, which shows on- and off-street parking facilities and information with special focus on short-term parking in downtown, and e-Park with Real-Time downtown parking information.
The “Your Spot is Here” website also features spotlights with discounts/coupons and promotions from businesses and merchants in Pioneer Square and the waterfront, a guide to special events. The resources page even has the city’s brochure on 22 ways to avoid parking tickets, among other useful links.
For more information on the Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Program, visit www.alaskanwayviaduct.org.