Thanks to the Bridging the Gap (BTG) transportation levy, the Seattle Department of Transportation is working hard to implement the Pedestrian Master Plan and help make Seattle a more walkable city! Since its passage by Seattle voters in 2006, the BTG transportation initiative has constructed new sidewalks, made repairs to existing sidewalks, remarked crosswalks, installed pedestrian countdown signals and constructed crossing improvements across the city.
A new sidewalk went in along a busy stretch of roadway where none had existed before. The project is located on Ravenna Ave E between 85th Ave NE and Lake City Way.
In 2012, all BTG pedestrian improvements projects have been completed. Projects include: restriping 501 crosswalks, installing pedestrian countdown signals at 25 intersections, completing six new Safe Routes to School projects, implementing 42 new crossing improvements, repairing 24 blocks of sidewalk and constructing 12 blocks of new sidewalk. These projects happened in neighborhoods all across the city and help make Seattle a more walkable city. Information about the Pedestrian Master Plan can be found on-line.
While the city is making strides to improve walking facilities, BTG is also helping to fund SDOT’s Holiday Pedestrian Safety Campaign. We are working to encourage all roadway users – pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders and drivers – to be on the lookout for each other – Drive with Care. Walk Aware. The campaign, now in its fourth year appears to be working. During the first three years we have seen, on average, a 34% reduction in collisions in the ever busy and bustling downtown retail core. For tips on a safe and happy season please visit their website.
For more information about BTG, its goals and accomplishments, please visit the web site.