Cowen Park Bridge from below in Cowen Park

Cowen Park Bridge facing north on 15th Ave NE

We are preparing to make seismic improvements to the Cowen Park Bridge to reduce the bridge’s vulnerability to earthquakes. Plan ahead and prepare for impacts to travel.

Here’s what you can expect:

SCHEDULE

Construction on the Cowen Park Bridge is anticipated to begin this fall 2019 and last approximately 6 months. We are in the final stages of selecting a contractor for this project.

CLOSURE | DETOUR

There will be redirects for people walking and biking across the bridge, as well as partial closures of walking routes within Cowen/Ravenna Parks underneath the bridge. Prepare for up to 2-3 full bridge weekend closures.

NOISE

There will be noise, dust, and vibrations during work hours, as well as equipment and materials staged near the work zone.

PROJECT OUTCOME

The planned seismic retrofits include several modifications to strengthen existing bridge components and reduce overall seismic vulnerability while preserving the bridge’s historic Art Deco character.

Map of the Cowen Park Bridge Seismic Retrofit project

What’s the background on this project?

Cowen Park Bridge from below in Cowen Park

Infrastructure maintenance is critical for a healthy, vibrant, and connected city. As part of the City of Seattle’s efforts to invest in transportation infrastructure and address seismic vulnerability, the City established a bridge seismic retrofit program. Funded through the Levy to Move Seattle, the City selected 16 bridges for seismic retrofits, including the Cowen Park Bridge.  Approved by voters in 2015, the 9-year $930 million Levy to Move Seattle provides funding to improve safety for all travelers, maintain our streets and bridges, and invest in reliable, affordable travel options for a growing city.

Cowen Park Bridge was built in 1936, prior to the modernization of the seismic design code. It connects the Roosevelt/Ravenna neighborhood with the University District via 15th Ave NE across a ravine in Cowen Park. The bridge is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is a designated City landmark.

Want more information?

We’re committed to keeping stakeholders informed and working with neighbors throughout the project to limit construction impacts to the extent feasible. For more information, including a schedule for this work, what to expect during construction, translated content, and how to join our email list, please visit www.seattle.gov/transportation/cowen-park-bridge.