This past week the NE Northgate Way & 5th Avenue NE Intersection and Pedestrian Improvements Project wrapped up with crews pouring concrete for the new sidewalks at each corner of the intersection. A remaining punch list item is adjusting the new signal to respond to actual traffic conditions. The majority of the project was complete in November 2012, awaiting delivery of signal parts (the new signal was installed earlier this month). Benefits of the seven-month-long project include enhanced transit speed and reliability as well as a safer pedestrian environment and improved mall access. 
Specifically the long awaited project provided:
- An additional left-turn lane from westbound NE Northgate Way onto southbound Fifth Ave NE
- A landscaped median with trees on NE Northgate Way just west of the intersection
- An extended right turn lane from northbound Fifth Avenue NE onto eastbound NE Northgate Way
- Decorative crosswalks on all four sides of the intersection
- A new signal system
- Improved drainage for better water quality
The project to improve the intersection of NE Northgate Way and Fifth Avenue NE is part of the Northgate Coordinated Transportation Investment Plan, which guides private and public transportation investments through 2030, and the Fifth Avenue NE Streetscape Plan developed by the City of Seattle in conjunction with the Northgate community.
For more information on a near future project set for Northgate area, visit: http://www.seattle.gov/transportation/pave_N105.htm