Early in 2015 SDOT completed another innovative project to improve pedestrian safety near the Salmon Bay School at NW 65th Street and 18th Avenue NW in Ballard. This project is another effort to help us achieve our Vision Zero goal, to end traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2030. .
New Curb ramps and RRFB at NW 65th and 18 Ave NW near Salmon Bay Elementary
The work at this intersection involved new curb ramps, curb bulbs, sidewalks repairs, and finally solar-powered Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFB), signals that help pedestrians cross streets safely. An on-street bicycle corral was also installed adjacent to the school.
This project improves pedestrian, vehicle, and road sign visibility, thereby increasing awareness of pedestrians, vehicles, and bicyclists to one another. The solar-powered RRFBs are a sustainable yet environmentally friendly alternative. This approach to provide power to the crossing beacons is helping ensure the longevity and reliability of the signals for years at a lower cost.
This intersection improvement was funded by Seattle’s Safe Routes to School program. To learn more about this and other Safe Routes to School projects, please click here.