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A Vibrant Seattle Through Transportation Excellence.

Join the Seattle Transit Advisory Board!

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Would you or someone you know like to influence issues such as commuter access to frequent transit; transit access for low-income residents; Seattle transit investments; and future RapidRide lines? You can, as a member of the Transit Advisory Board.

 

Would you like input on transit strategies during the so-called period of maximum constraint? Do you want to have a say in the future of Seattle’s mass transit, bringing your experiences or representing others? Join the Transit Advisory Board. One monthly meeting gets you up close and involved.

 

Influence public transportation!

The Transit Advisory Board (TAB) is accepting applications through Friday, October 12, for new members, an extension of the original deadline to help ensure the word gets out.

The volunteer board plays an important role in advising the City of Seattle on decisions regarding transit and other forms of public transportation. The TAB’s recommendations go to the Mayor and City Council and the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), to name some partners in this space.

 

Board members serve a two-year term, with opportunities for re-appointment, and attend a meeting on the fourth Wednesday of every month, 6 – 8 PM at Seattle City Hall.

TAB members can be representatives of any of the following:

  • Different geographical locations citywide
  • A variety of transit rider groups including persons with disabilities, senior and school-age community members, commuters, and low-income riders
  • Travelers of different public transportation modes (e.g. bus, light rail, streetcar, and ferry)
  • Residents with an interest in improving transit conditions within the City and region, and have experience with urban transit issues
  • Transit-related organizations and clubs
  • Schools, business, and neighborhood organizations that depend on our public transportation system

 

Here’s how you can apply!

Please submit a statement of interest (cover letter) and resume (or equivalent information) by Friday, October 12, 2018!

Email: TransitBoard@seattle.gov | subject line: “TAB Recruitment”

Mail:

Benjamin Smith
ATTN: TAB Recruitment
Seattle Department of Transportation
P.O Box 34966
Seattle, Washington 98124-4996

We’re committed to promoting diversity in the City’s boards and commissions. People of color, immigrants or refugees, youth, seniors, persons with disabilities, and sexual and gender minorities are encouraged to apply.

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Join the Convo! 3 Neighborhoods that will soon be better connected by Link light rail in 2021!

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Capitol Hill Station Opening Day, March 19, 2016

By now, most of you know that how you get around downtown Seattle is rapidly changing.

We’ve made investments around the city to help you get around and for many travelers, the time is now to adjust and adapt to the new normal.

The University District (U District) is no different. This urban center adjacent to the University of Washington is seeing investments that will change how people get to and from the neighborhood – including the opening of a new Link Light Rail station in 2021.

 

To assist residents and commuters, as well as a focus on small business support, U District, Let’s Go! connects people working, living, and visiting the U District with transportation resources and assistance so that they can navigate and leverage the increased economic capacity and growth brought by light rail.

 

“I’ve heard a lot over this past year,” says Miriam Castro, U District, Let’s Go! Program Manager. “I’ve heard people’s excitement for Link light rail and the opportunities it will bring; I’ve also heard uncertainty around how the neighborhood might change.”

 

The value of shared insights – because we’re in it together.

Image by rachelsgingerbeer.com

Earlier this year at the recent U District, Let’s Go!‘s (UDLG) Transit Talk, Rachel Marshall, co-founder of Rachel’s Ginger Beer (and two small businesses near the Capitol Hill Link light rail station), shared her insights on what she learned when her neighborhood was preparing for the light rail, one of which was the value of looking at what other neighborhoods are doing. Connecting, talking, and learning from each other is what is inspiring the next U District, Let’s Go! Transit Talk, We’re in it Together, on October 4, at 6:30 PM at the Urban Luxe Café.

 

We’re in it Together is the convening of three neighborhoods, U District, Roosevelt, and Northgate that will soon be better connected by Link light rail in 2021.

 

“I’ve seen several examples of how organizations have stayed ahead of changes and have heard a lot of great ideas too,” said Castro.

 

The Transit Talk is a way for these neighborhoods to showcase what they are working on, what concerns they have, and maybe get a few interested volunteers.

 

What’s happening in the next two years.

Representatives from neighborhood organizations and from public agencies like King County Metro Transit and Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) will talk about what lies ahead in the next two years and beyond. Another goal is to learn about upcoming transportation projects associated with the light rail station opening, discuss changes these neighborhoods can expect between now and 2021, and how community stakeholders can engage in getting ready for these three new light rail stations.

The event will be moderated by Miranda Redinger, a Senior Planner with the City of Shoreline who spent four years planning for two light rail stations that will be operational in 2024, and also a resident of Northgate. When asked about her role in the evening, she replied,

“I understand how the process can be frustrating for the public and public agencies alike, especially with regard to the effectiveness of public input. Timelines and budgets are outside of how households plan, and transportation and land-use planning can seem counter-intuitive to people, but there are ways that residents can leverage this regional investment to improve their neighborhoods.”

 

Redinger and Castro hope that the event will help attendees gain valuable information, inspire creativity, and bring meaningful dialogue on how communities can engage with each other and with public agencies.

 

“Our three neighborhoods are about to get closer, we should start talking now,” said Castro.

 

Join the convo! RSVP.

 

Let’s learn from our collective creativity! Save your seat and engage with the entire line up of speakers. RSVP.

 

U District, Let’s Go! is a collaboration with Transportation Choices Coalition, Seattle Department of Transportation and U District Partnership, supported by a WSDOT project using Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality (CMAQ) funds.

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What’s Moving Seattle | This Week

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This week in Seattle are many Mariners games, plus a Sounders and a Huskies game. Concerts and festivals are in the mix, along with walking for good causes and an emergency response test to ensure sound understanding of our new tunnel…

Monday

Image from www.centurylinkfield.com/event/rise-against/

 

Tuesday

Image by Mariners Baseball | www.mlb.com/mariners

 

Wednesday

Image by Mariners Baseball | www.mlb.com/mariners

 

Thursday

Image by WSDOT | Tunnel rendering.

 

Friday

Image from www.biteofbroadview.com/

 

Saturday

Image by Center for Wooden Boats | cwb.org/events

 

Sunday

Image by KeyArena | www.keyarena.com

 

Construction information.

  • September 23 – 27: Ramp closure of 9th Ave and Pike St. Express Ramp, 9 PM – 4 AM nightly, for work on Washington State Convention Center  layover loop.
  • September 27: Closure of 6th Ave N between Thomas and Mercer streets, and closure of Harrison St between 6th Ave N and SR 99, for effort to test tunnel emergency response.
  • September 28 – 29: 35th Ave NE will be fully closed, between NE 65th and 75th streets for paving.
  • September 28 – 29: Rainier Square Mat Pour, 10 PM Friday – 4 PM Saturday, closing:
    • 5th Ave, University to Pike streets;
    • 4th Ave, Seneca to Union streets;
    • University St, 3rd to 5th avenues; and
    • Union St, 4th to 6th avenues.
  • September 29: 7th Ave will be closed from Lenora St to Blanchard St, 7 AM – 5 PM, for crane work. Bicycle, pedestrian and access Amazon buildings will be maintained.
  • September 30: Ramp closure of 9th Ave and Pike St. Express Ramp, 9 PM – 4 AM for work on Washington State Convention Center  layover loop.

 

Reality check…

WSDOT image | Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Program

  • The reality of a 3-week SR 99 closure is on the horizon. With a confirmed date of January 11, 2019, now is the time to be sure you’re prepared!

 

More info…

 

Contact us!

__________________________

Resources:

SDOT’s Traveler’s Map

Know before you go. Use the map controls to see real-time traffic, travel times, camera footage, if a bridge is up or down, and if a railroad crossing is open or closed – select by neighborhood if you choose.

 

Follow us!

Follow us for breaking news, real-time traffic, project updates, events, surveys, policy, advisories, blogs, & more.

 

Alert Seattle

Sign up for ALERT SEATTLE, WSDOT, and Metro Alerts. AlertSeattle is the official emergency notification system used by the City of Seattle to communicate with city residents during emergencies. Sign up now to receive free alerts from the City via text message, email, voice message or social media.

 

King County’s Get Ready website

There’s no way around it—getting around Seattle is going to be tricky during the SR 99 closure. Expect traffic delays and be prepared for full buses during peak travel times. Check out the travel options below that can help you get around in anticipation of the new SR 99 tunnel opening.

 

Commute Seattle’s Employer Resources

For over 10 years, Commute Seattle has helped Seattle businesses of all sizes unlock their potential and empower employees to utilize convenient, affordable, and sustainable transportation options.

 

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We’ve added over 300 trips each week on popular bus routes across the city!

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We’re investing in transit.

The Alaskan Way Viaduct (AWV) is permanently closing in January 2019. This once in a lifetime event will forever change how we get around Seattle. We know getting around will become increasingly harder especially during this transition. To help relieve some of the downtown travel pressure, we’ve developed five key pillars of our downtown mobility strategy to help you get around as easily as possible during this challenging period.

 

Starting this Saturday, September 22, King County Metro’s fall service change will happen – this is when you’ll notice our investments coming through for you. We’ve added over 300 trips each week on popular bus routes across the city, including 32 trips during weekday peak periods to help alleviate crowded bus routes.

We’re also proactively adding trips on routes that’ll be impacted when the Viaduct closes in January. As the roadways become more congested, added transit service will be necessary to move people efficiently through the limited roadway space.

 

Thank you, Seattle voters!

We’re funding trips starting this September (and in 2019) through the Seattle Transportation Benefit District (STBD), approved by Seattle voters in November 2014.

Here’s what you can expect.

This weekend, you’ll see the following bus route improvements:
We’re expanding 10-minute weekday service.
  • Improved routes 41 and 70 to 10-minutes or better service from 6 AM – 7 PM on weekdays

 

We’ve added transit capacity through peak period trips.

  • Added 1 AM trips and 1 PM trips on RapidRide C Line (a joint investment with Amazon)
  • Added 1 AM trips and 1 PM trips on RapidRide D Line (a joint investment with Amazon)
  • Added 3 AM trips and 6 PM trips on RapidRide E Line
  • Added 3 AM trips on Routes 17/18 (a joint investment with King County Metro)
  • Added 1 AM trip on Route 28
  • Added 5 AM trips and 9 PM trips on Route 40 (a joint investment with King County Metro)
  • Added 1 AM trips and 4 PM trips on Route 41
  • Added 2 AM trips and 1 PM trips on Routes 56/57
  • Added 3 AM trips and 4 PM trips on Route 70
  • Added 2 AM trips and 1 PM trips on Route 120

 

Improved service reliability on Route 50 to serve Veterans Affairs Hospital.

 

Added targeted trips on Routes 7, 31, 32, 73, 75, 106, and 372 to improve connections seven days a week (some investments funded by Metro).

 

We’re working around the clock.

We’re working around the clock to help you prepare and navigate around the construction impacts while keeping you informed of what’s happening so that you can plan your commute accordingly.

Read more about what transportation engineers have dubbed this transition as, the Period of Maximum Constraint:

 

Resources:

SDOT’s Traveler’s Map

Know before you go. Use the map controls to see real-time traffic, travel times, camera footage, if a bridge is up or down, and if a railroad crossing is open or closed – select by neighborhood if you choose.

 

Follow us!

Follow us for breaking news, real-time traffic, project updates, events, surveys, policy, advisories, blogs, & more.

 

Alert Seattle

Sign up for ALERT SEATTLE, WSDOT, and Metro Alerts. AlertSeattle is the official emergency notification system used by the City of Seattle to communicate with city residents during emergencies. Sign up now to receive free alerts from the City via text message, email, voice message or social media.

 

King County’s Get Ready website

There’s no way around it—getting around Seattle is going to be tricky during the SR 99 closure. Expect traffic delays and be prepared for full buses during peak travel times. Check out the travel options below that can help you get around in anticipation of the new SR 99 tunnel opening.

 

Commute Seattle’s Employer Resources

For over 10 years, Commute Seattle has helped Seattle businesses of all sizes unlock their potential and empower employees to utilize convenient, affordable, and sustainable transportation options.

 

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The SR 99 Viaduct is permanently closing in January – here’s what we’re doing to help you get around downtown.

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Alaskan Way Viaduct as it looks today. Photo by Jeanne Clark.

The Alaskan Way Viaduct is closing permanently in January 2019 & new SR 99 tunnel is opening in February 2019.

We all knew it was coming, but that doesn’t necessarily make it easier to experience a closed Alaskan Way Viaduct (AWV) with a not-yet-open SR 99 tunnel, and for three weeks at that. Today, the WA State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) announced an established date for the three week-closure of AWV which is prior to opening the SR 99 tunnel to drivers. WSDOT’s current plan is to begin the three-week closure on Friday, January 11, 2019.

 

Alaskan Way Viaduct and Waterfront – looking north. Photo by Jeanne Clark.

This historic event of closing the AWV and opening the SR 99 tunnel will forever change how we get around Seattle.

Our teams have long-coordinated with WSDOT on how and where we can best support mobility needs during the three weeks. Here’s what we’re doing to coordinate efforts with WSDOT so you can get around downtown safely and efficiently as possible during this transition.

 

To prepare, we’ve developed five key pillars of our downtown mobility strategy:

In our Sept 7 blog: Seattle’s transportation new normal is just around the corner, we laid out our five strategies to help you get around as easily as possible during this challenging period.

 

 

We’re working around the clock to help you prepare and navigate around the construction impacts while keeping you informed of what’s happening so that you can plan your commute accordingly.

 

 A Key Step: Deploying a 24/7 Transportation Operation Center.

We have multiple areas of focus to help deliver a high-quality transportation system for Seattle. One of those is a state-of-the-art Transportation Operations Center (TOC). The TOC is our nerve center coordinating information from traffic cameras across the city plus data from Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) installed citywide. Our TOC will be fully staffed 24/7, adding:

 

  • Constant traffic monitoring,
  • Reporting out (including electronic messaging signs),
  • Real-time adjustments of traffic signals to ease traffic flow,
  • Daily communications coordination with WSDOT and partner agencies, and
  • Real-time construction and traffic information sharing with Google Maps, Waze, and TomTom.

 

Follow our TOC on Twitter (@SDOTtraffic) for real-time traffic communication. The more information checking and disseminating, the better during this three-week journey we’re taking.

SDOT’s Transportation Operations Center. Pictured: Samual Yemane. Photo by Jeanne Clark.

 

 Adding to traffic flow operations.

Minute-to-minute information exchange and adjusting traffic flow isn’t enough though, so we’re trying to come at it from all sides. These include:

 

Helping drivers:

We’re coordinating with the Seattle Police Department to deploy uniformed police officers at key transit intersections – prioritizing transit and helping drivers get through.

 

Prioritizing transit:

We’re supporting King County Metro Transit with temporary bus staging assistance; helping with carpool and park-and-rides implementation; and thanks to Seattle voters, the Seattle Transportation Benefit District (STBD) is adding 14 AM and 17 PM bus trips to address crowding on routes across the city. Routes 17, 18, 28, 40, 41, 56, 57, 70, 120, and RapidRides C, D, and E Lines will all receive additional trips funded by STBD. STBD funds the ORCA Opportunity program, which provides Seattle Public School high schools students with 12-month bus passes. In 2019-2020, STBD will fund capital improvements to speed up buses and make them more reliable for riders.

 

It’s all to help address the three-week closure sequencing.

During the three weeks, there will be very important work going on to enable the new tunnel to open, on both the north and south (shown below) ends.

 

When all is said and done, after the tunnel opens and other refinements are completed, three roads currently interrupted by SR 99 (John, Thomas and Harrison streets) will be reconnected, improving east-west connections between South Lake Union and Uptown. There will also be a host of other route enhancements, as shown on this WSDOT Seattle’s Completed Waterfront page (and map below).

It’ll all be worth it.

The end result looks good.

 

 

Waterfront Seattle’s work includes a road above the waterfront railroad tracks to connect Elliott and Western avenues with Alaskan Way, avoiding a railroad crossing. At that time, later in 2019, the traffic that today uses the viaduct’s mid-town ramps to enter or leave downtown can instead use the new Alaskan Way surface street.

 

For more information, as we plunge into the biggest transportation closure Seattle has ever seen, visit the source: WSDOT’s #Realign99 Highway Closure website for details.

 

Resources:

SDOT’s Traveler’s Map

Know before you go. Use the map controls to see real-time traffic, travel times, camera footage, if a bridge is up or down, and if a railroad crossing is open or closed – select by neighborhood if you choose.

 

Follow us!

Follow us for breaking news, real-time traffic, project updates, events, surveys, policy, advisories, blogs, & more.

 

Alert Seattle

Sign up for ALERT SEATTLE, WSDOT, and Metro Alerts. AlertSeattle is the official emergency notification system used by the City of Seattle to communicate with city residents during emergencies. Sign up now to receive free alerts from the City via text message, email, voice message or social media.

 

King County’s Get Ready website

There’s no way around it—getting around Seattle is going to be tricky during the SR 99 closure. Expect traffic delays and be prepared for full buses during peak travel times. Check out the travel options below that can help you get around in anticipation of the new SR 99 tunnel opening.

 

Commute Seattle’s Employer Resources

For over 10 years, Commute Seattle has helped Seattle businesses of all sizes unlock their potential and empower employees to utilize convenient, affordable, and sustainable transportation options.

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What’s Moving Seattle | This Week UPDATE: Revive I-5 Postponed

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There’s only ONE game this week if they win again tonight!

We know–they’re in Fairfax, Virginia for game 3 of 5 in the WNBA Finals, just a hop over the Potomac from D.C., but fans might decide to stay home to watch the game, or stay put for a while at a favorite sports pub to watch…leaving streets with lighter traffic. What?! It could happen! (and this last scheduled I-5 Revive weekend would me a good time for it…)

Let us just take this moment to honor them….

 

Wednesday, September 12

Game 3 of the WNBA Finals‘ Best-of-5 is tonight, after the Storm took the first two against the Mystics! There can be only one…. | 5 PM PST on ESPN. We probably don’t even need to know this, but the last 2 games of the Best-of-5 are:

  • Game 4: Near the other Washington, Sept. 14, 8 PM ET
  • Game 5: In Seattle, Washington, Sept. 16, 5 PM PST

 

Seattle Mariners host San Diego Padres at Safeco Field, for a second time this week; 3:40 PM start.

 

Thursday, September 13

Boats Afloat Show at Chandlers Cove in South Lake Union, 901 Fairview Ave N; 11 AM – 6 PM.

Virtual Self – Utopia Tour concert at WaMu Theater; 7 PM – 11:45 PM.

 

Friday, September 14

The Susan G. Komen Seattle 3-Day, Opening ceremony at Seattle Center North Fountain Lawn; 7 AM (walkers arrive 5:30-6:30 AM). Note: public parking will NOT be available in Memorial Stadium Parking Lot. Visit Seattle Center’s parking page for more info.

Boats Afloat Show at Chandlers Cove in South Lake Union, 901 Fairview Ave N; 11 AM – 6 PM.

Seattle Greek Festival at St. Demetrois Greek Orthodox Church, in Seattle’s Montlake neighborhood; 12 PM – 9 PM.

Leon Bridges: Good Thing Tour concert at WaMu Theater; 8 PM – 11 PM.

**Revive I-5 weekend | NB I-5 reduced to 2 lanes, Martin Luther King Jr. Way to Olive Way; 8 PM Fri. – 5 AM Mon. See more details below. POSTPONED due to weather!

**SB SR 99 will be closed, S end of Battery St Tunnel – S Spokane St; 11:59 PM Fri. – 11:59 PM Sun.

 

Saturday, September 15

Seattle Fiestas Patrias, Annual festival and parade in Seattle’s South park neighborhood to commemorate the independence of Latin American countries; parade 10 AM – 1 PM then festival 1 PM – 6 PM.

Seattle Greek Festival at St. Demetrois Greek Orthodox Church, in Seattle’s Montlake neighborhood; 10 AM – 9 PM.

Battery Block Party event, closing Battery St between 1st and 2nd avenues; 10 AM – 8 PM.

Boats Afloat Show at Chandlers Cove in South Lake Union, 901 Fairview Ave N; 10 AM – 6 PM.

The Susan G. Komen Seattle 3-Day, spectator/route information here (starts/ends at Seattle Center).

**Revive I-5 weekend | NB I-5 reduced to 2 lanes, Martin Luther King Jr. Way to Olive Way; 8 PM Fri. – 5 AM Mon. See more details below. POSTPONED due to weather!

**SB SR 99 will be closed, S end of Battery St Tunnel – S Spokane St; 11:59 PM Fri. – 11:59 PM Sun.

**Mercer St will be closed for repaving, between Eastlake Ave E and Yale Ave N, and parking restricted; 7 AM – 5 PM  Local access only with up to 15-minute waits to clear equipment, along Yale Ave N between Republican St and Mercer St and Mercer St between Pontius Ave N and Yale Ave N.

**Seattle City Light Denny Substation work (7 AM – 7 PM):

  • 9th Ave N will be closed from Mercer St to Republican St
  • Republican St will be closed from 9th Ave N to Boren Ave N
  • Thomas St will be closed from 9th Ave N to Fairview Ave N

 

Sunday, September 16

Cosmo 7K run and 5K run & walk along Alki Beach in West Seattle; 9:30 AM – 11 AM

Boats Afloat Show at Chandlers Cove in South Lake Union, 901 Fairview Ave N; 10 AM – 6 PM.

Seattle Greek Festival at St. Demetrois Greek Orthodox Church, in Seattle’s Montlake neighborhood; 12 PM – 7 PM.

The Susan G. Komen Seattle 3-Day, spectator/route information here; closing ceremony at Seattle Center’s Memorial Stadium; 4:30 PM. Note: public parking will NOT be available in Memorial Stadium Parking Lot.  Visit Seattle Center’s parking page for more info.

**Revive I-5 weekend | NB I-5 reduced to 2 lanes, Martin Luther King Jr. Way to Olive Way; 8 PM Fri. – 5 AM Mon. See more details below. POSTPONED due to weather!

**SB SR 99 will be closed, S end of Battery St Tunnel – S Spokane St; 11:59 PM Fri. – 11:59 PM Sun.

**Mercer St will be closed for repaving, between Eastlake Ave E and Yale Ave N, and parking restricted; 7 AM – 5 PM  Local access only with up to 15-minute waits to clear equipment, along Yale Ave N between Republican St and Mercer St and Mercer St between Pontius Ave N and Yale Ave N.

**Seattle City Light Denny Substation work (7 AM – 7 PM):

  • 9th Ave N will be closed from Mercer St to Republican St
  • Republican St will be closed from 9th Ave N to Boren Ave N
  • Thomas St will be closed from 9th Ave N to Fairview Ave N

 

More construction info.

Revive I-5 weekend | details  POSTPONED due to weather!

  • Starting tonight | NB I-5 Ramp closures:
    • West Seattle Bridge on-ramp closed 10 PM Wed. – 4:30 AM Thurs.
    • Off-ramp to Columbian Way closed 9 PM to 5 AM nightly, Wed. – Fri. (morning).
  • 8 PM Fri – 5 AM Mon | NB I-5 Ramp closures:
    • S Michigan St on- and off-ramps
    • Off-ramp to South Columbian Way
    • West Seattle Bridge on- and off-ramps
    • Columbian Way on-ramp
    • Cherry Street on-ramp
    • University on-ramp
    • Off-ramp to Olive Way
    • Off-ramp to Seneca Street

Note: work is weather dependent.

 

Other construction this week (not ** above):

  • Columbia St remains closed | between 1st Ave and Post Ave.  This will continue through the end of the month, to complete an areaway project.
  • Columbia St still reduced 1 lane | between 1st Ave and 3rd Ave.  The work is set to wrap by early next week, or sooner.
  • Blanchard St remains closed | between 7th and 8th, through Friday, for simultaneous construction of 4 projects.  The 3 week full closure replaced a 3-4 month partial closure.
  • Fir St will be closed Saturday | between 9th Ave and Broadway, during tower crane removal.

 

Sneak peek @ next week…

 

On the horizon…

S portal work planned during SR 99 closure | Image by WSDOT

The reality of a 3-week SR 99 closure is on the horizon. No confirmation yet on when – but be prepared! 

 

For the data hungry…

 

Contact us!

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Seattle’s transportation new normal is just around the corner.

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ID/Chinatown Downtown Transit Tunnel. Image by J. Clark.

We’re getting ready for the Maximum Constraint.

Starting January 11, 2019, As early as this fall the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will move forward with the permanent closure of the Alaskan Way Viaduct. This construction project is one of countless private and public construction projects taking place in the right of way in and around downtown.

In fact, over the next five years, Seattle’s downtown will be in a state of transition to meet the needs of our growing city. Transportation engineers have dubbed this transitional phase:

 

THE PERIOD OF MAXIMUM CONSTRAINT.

 

And while it sounds like it could be the name of a summer action blockbuster starring Will Smith, it’s not quite that dramatic, but a big deal nonetheless. During this period, folks who travel in and around downtown will be impacted by increased construction, which will lead to more congestion with additional street closures and ongoing delays.

 

Yes, ironically, things will get tougher before they get better.

Alaskan Way Viaduct as it looks today. Image by J. Clark.

Seattle is entering a new era of tough traffic and we continue to work with our partner agencies, businesses, commuters, and community members to prepare.

Together with our partnering agencies, we’re working to reduce congestion during this challenging period and limit the impact on commuters and businesses.


Throwback movie clip from 2011 AWV demolition via SDOT Flickr.

The impending demolition of WSDOT’s 1950s vintage Alaskan Way Viaduct and the opening of the new SR 99 Tunnel will forever change the Seattle transportation landscape. In addition, there are more than more than 60 construction cranes currently dotting the skyline for megaprojects like the expansion of the Washington State Convention Center. And work is expected to intensify over the coming months.

 

Getting around downtown.

Pioneer Square Transit Station. Image by J. Clark.

We’re working to ensure these travel woes are not detrimental to your commute, especially those who rely on transit. We’re working closely with local and regional transit partners, like King County Metro, Sound Transit, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and the Downtown Seattle Association (just to name a few) on ways to help you get around downtown as safely and efficiently as possible during this transition.

 

To prepare, we’ve prioritized 5 key areas:

We’re working around the clock to help you prepare and navigate around the construction impacts while keeping you informed of what’s happening so that you can plan your commute accordingly.

 

Here’s what we’re doing right now to prepare:

 

  • Added more public transit service on our busiest bus routes to help you avoid sitting in your car in traffic, and in a moving vehicle with priority service.
  • 3rd Ave transit priority is already in place to increase public transit flow and consistent travel time reliability.
  • New signal timing on 2nd and 4th Avenue downtown to improve transit speed and reduce conflicts between turning vehicles, pedestrians, and buses.
  • Distributed ORCA Opportunity cards to all Seattle high school students.
  • Adding more traffic cameras and travel time detectors so we’ll have more real-time data about how traffic is moving.

 

Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect in the coming weeks and months:

  • A new regional transportation digital platform that gives real-time traffic and construction updates as well as weekly traffic forecast reports for the work week.
  • Pilot load zone projects for urban goods delivery by e-cargo bike and rideshare priority areas for Lyft and Uber. We’ll test out new strategies to see how they work before expanding them to other parts of downtown.
  • Outreach to businesses working on major projects to reduce construction impacts on our busiest downtown streets during our busiest times.
  • New 24/7 real-time traffic monitoring at SDOT’s Transportation Operations Center and social media updates to help you time your commute.
  • Off-board fare payment and all-door boarding on 3rd Avenue for all bus riders – not just those on the RapidRide routes. This will help to speed up travel times for the over 100,000 people who ride a bus on 3rd Avenue every weekday.
  • A new pathway for northbound buses on 5th and 6th Avenues to maintain transit travel times through downtown once the Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel becomes light-rail only in Spring 2019.
  • Improvements at major transit stations (like the Montlake Triangle, International District/Chinatown Station and at Westlake) that make it easier to find and wait for your bus and train or connect to a bike share, car share or rideshare vehicle
  • Sound Transit is on track to open extensions to Seattle’s University District, Roosevelt and Northgate neighborhoods in 2021, with service to Mercer Island, Bellevue and Redmond’s Overlake area opening in 2023. Additional extensions to Kent/Des Moines, Federal Way, Shoreline, Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, and Downtown Redmond will open in 2024. Thereafter, light rail extensions are scheduled to reach Tacoma and West Seattle in 2030; Ballard in 2035; Everett in 2036; and South Kirkland and Issaquah in 2041.

 

Timeline of downtown major construction impacts.  

 

WA State Convention Center (WSCC) Construction

Summer of 2018 | WSCC has launched a transformative project that will provide economic and public benefits, including affordable housing, cycling, and pedestrian improvements, and a study of lidding more of I-5 – as part of its $92 million expansion. Construction is expected to be complete in 2021.

 

Rainer Tower 2 Construction

Currently in Construction | At the corner of 5th Ave and Union St, Rainier Tower 2 is a new building being built in Rainier Square and will become an iconic new skyscraper on Seattle’s horizon. It will house a new space for offices, retail stores, a hotel, residential units, and parking. Construction is set to continue into 2021.

 

Viaduct Closes

January 11, 2019 | WSDOT will close SR 99 through downtown Seattle for approximately three weeks to build roadway and ramp connections, realign SR 99 and open the new SR 99 tunnel.

 

Tunnel Opens

Early 2019 | The new 2-mile stretch of SR 99 tunnel opens to traffic.

 

Viaduct Demolition

2019 | After the tunnel opens, AWV demolition begins by the waterfront, the tunnel will be decommissioned, and Aurora Ave N connected.

 

Waterfront Construction

2019 | Built by the City of Seattle’s Office of the Waterfront, the new Alaskan Way street will be transformed along the waterfront.

 

Bus Service Ends in Transit Tunnel

Spring 2019 | King County Metro bus routes 41, 74, 101, 102, 150, 255 and Sound Transit Express Route 550 buses will no longer use the transit tunnel and will operate on surface streets.

 

SR 99 Tunnel Tolling

2019 | The SR 99 tunnel will be free to use when it opens for a period of time before tolling starts.

 

Exciting changes abound.

Pioneer Square Light Rail, Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel. Image by J. Clark.

From the anticipated grandeur of a Pike-Pine Renaissance to breathtaking views from a reinvigorated Seattle waterfront, people will be connected to and through a re-imagined downtown.

 

Please stay tuned.
There’s more to come.

 

This is just a sample of projects and information. And now that we have it, it’s crucial that you can start thinking about how these impacts may affect you.

 

Don’t fret!

Seattle💙. Image by J. Clark.

We’re in this together. In the coming weeks, we’ll make some additional announcements that will help you plan and prepare for future travel to help you navigate during this period, including to be among the first to sign up for downtown traffic reports, news and information.

 

Together, along with our local and regional partners will help you successfully navigate this period to make daily connections that keep you moving.

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UPDATE! 3rd Ave transit improvements – Starts Mon. Aug. 20

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Starting this Monday, August 20 fall.

As the Washington State Department of Transportation plans for a full three-week closure as early as this fall, of SR 99 downtown – the Alaskan Way Viaduct – and the opening of a new SR 99 tunnel under downtown, we’re ramping up our strategy to deal with the traffic impacts in and around downtown. One key pillar of our plan for dealing with the traffic impacts is investing in transit and working to get 3rd Avenue to work as efficiently as possible.

 

The Seattle Police Department will cite people violating new restrictions in the coming weeks, but in the beginning, you’ll see officers educating people driving.

 

We’re working with King County Metro to bring transit improvements to 3rd Avenue – a street that carries more than 2,500 buses just about every day. On a normal weekday, these buses traveling up and down 3rd Avenue pick up and drop off 100,000 people. That’s the equivalent to 10x the number of people attending the Capitol Hill Block Party (which happened last weekend btw!).

 

More people are choosing to ride the bus.

It’s true! We’ve continued to see increased ridership over the last seven years, and 48 percent of Center City commuters take transit. In our quickly growing city, adjusting and prioritizing transit is going to be a key way to make sure people can keep moving reliably and affordably. So, in partnership with King County Metro, we’ll be making a number of changes to 3rd Avenue starting Monday, August 20 this September to keep pace with this demand for bus service to and through downtown Seattle.

 

The plan for 3rd Avenue.

Since we can’t grow or expand 3rd Avenue, we’ll need to look at how can we get it to work as efficiently as possible to move more people in our growing city. Here’s our approach:

 

Optimize bus service on 3rd Avenue by extending bus-only hours.

 

Currently:

Today, 3rd Avenue is reserved for buses and people biking during the busiest weekday commute times or

  • 6 – 9 AM, Monday through Friday.
  • 3 – 6:30 PM, Monday through Friday.

 

Coming soon  | Starting this Monday, August 20

The biggest change you’ll see starting Monday, August 20 in late September is 3rd Ave (from Stewart Street to just south of Yesler Way – see map) will be reserved for buses and people biking, from morning to night, 6 AM – 7 PM, seven days a week.

 

What does that mean for you?

People biking will still be allowed, as they are today.

 

Drivers, including taxis and rideshares:

  • Cars will be allowed on 3rdAvenue, from 7 PM to 6 AM, seven days a week.
  • No left turns off 3rdAvenue, 24/7.
  • You can cross 3rdAvenue going east-west, 24/7.
  • No on-street parking on Prefontaine Place, 6 AM – 7 PM, seven days a week.

 

Deliveries & commercial drivers:

  • Permitted commercial vehicles will be allowed to use 3rdAvenue, from 9 AM – 3 PM and 7 PM – 6 AM, seven days a week.
  • No left turns off 3rdAvenue, 24/7.
  • You can cross 3rdAvenue going east-west, 24/7.

 

New ORCA card readers on 3rd Ave so you can pay before you ride.

Currently, customers on RapidRide buses have the option of paying prior to boarding by tapping their ORCA card on a card reader at the bus stop.  “Off-board” payment speeds up boarding and helps buses move more efficiently.

Starting in March 2019, every stop on 3rd Avenue between Yesler Way and Denny Way will have an ORCA card reader and a real-time bus arrival sign.

Construction is necessary to install the new ORCA card readers and will happen between November 2018 and March 2019 and will be back with more details as that work approaches.

 

Improve bus traffic flow by moving and adding bus stops.

To help improve bus flow, we’ll be making changes to the following bus stop locations:

 

  • Moving the southbound stop between Jefferson Street and James Street one block north between James Street and Cherry Street.
  • Adding a new northbound stop between Columbia Street and Marion Street.

 

Our goal is to have construction at these stops completed by March 2019 and March 2020, respectively, and we’ll share more information as that time comes.

 

Have questions about these upcoming changes?

Connect with our project team, email us at ThirdAve.Transit@seattle.gov.

 

Part of a bigger picture.

These changes are part of a bigger set of strategies identified in the One Center City, Near-Term Action Plan. The One Center City Near-Term Action Plan identifies key projects and programs that will help keep people and the economy moving even as major construction projects and growth-related congestion reduce street capacity over the next three to five years. 

 

Working together, the City of Seattle, King County Metro, Sound Transit, and the Downtown Seattle Association (DSA), dedicated $30 million to fund near-term improvements that will ease pressure on downtown streets and contribute to great downtown places for people. To learn more about the near-term projects visit onecentercity.org.

Revised blog from July 26, 2018. 

 

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What’s Moving Seattle | This Week

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Jack White kicks it off in Seattle this week, later followed by Hemp Fest, Hot Sauce, and Halestorm; Oh My! Get in the moment with one of these action options–and act with an informed travel plan (a.k.a. construction aware).

 

MONDAY, AUGUST 13

Featured image by CenturyLink Field | bit.ly/2B3yWM9

Jack White concert: At WaMu Theater.  8 PM – 11 PM.  Doors open at 7 PM.  Estimated attendance: 7,000.

Denny Substation project work has travel impacts to be aware of starting today, through Sunday:

  • August 13 – 15,  7 AM – 3 PM | Pontius Ave N fully closed, between Republican and John streets, to complete pavement markings.
  • August 13 – 17,  24/7 | Thomas St will be closed, between Terry and Westlake avenues north, for full roadway restoration.
  • August 13 – 17,  7AM – 3PM | Thomas St will be fully closed, between Pontius and Fairview avenues north, to complete pavement markings.
  • August 15 – 17, 7AM – 3PM | Minor Ave N will be fully closed, between Republican and John streets, to complete pavement markings.
  • August 18 – 19, 9 AM – 7 PM | Republican St will be closed, between Fairview and Minor avenues north, for duct bank installation.

 

FRIDAY, AUGUST 17

Featured image by Pike Place Market Foundation | pikeplacemarketfoundation.org/events

Seattle Gift Show: At Washington State Convention Center.  Show hours: 9 AM to 5 PM.  Estimated attendance: 6,000.

Hempfest: 27th annual cannabis festival at Myrtle Edwards and Centennial Parks on Seattle’s waterfront.  Festival hours are 12 PM – 8 PM.  Estimated attendance: 30,000.

Sunset Supper at Pike Place Market: Annual dinner at the Pike Place Market to benefit the Pike Place Market Foundation.  Event hours are 7 PM to 11 PM.  Pike Place will close at 8 AM Friday morning.  Estimated attendance: 1,600.

Seattle Mariners vs. LA Dodgers: At Safeco Field.  First Pitch: 7:10 PM.  Estimated attendance: 40,000.

Halestorm + In This Moment concert: At WaMu Theater.  8 PM – 11 PM.  Doors open at 7 PM.  Estimated attendance: 7,000.

 

SATURDAY, AUGUST 18

Featured image by The World is Fun | www.theworldisfun.org

Seattle Gift Show: At Washington State Convention Center.  Show hours: 9 AM to 5 PM.  Estimated attendance: 6,000.

Hempfest: 27th annual cannabis festival at Myrtle Edwards and Centennial Parks on Seattle’s waterfront.  Festival hours are 10 AM – 8 PM.  Estimated attendance: 30,000.

Big Day of Play: Free event presented by Seattle Parks and Recreation.  At Rainier Community Center and Playfields.  Event hours are 11 AM to 5 PM.  Estimated attendance: 2,600.

Hot Sauce Fest: Free event at Ballard Commons Park features the best hot sauces, food trucks and entertainment.  Event hours are 11 AM to 10 PM.  Estimated attendance: 2,150.

Boogie Up the Block: Free all-day urban arts event in Seattle’s Central District.  Event will close E. Fir St. between 12th Ave. and 14th Ave.  Event hours are 12 PM to 8 PM.  Estimated attendance: 300.

Washington Beer BBQ: At SLU Discovery Center.  Event hours are 12 PM to 6 PM.  Estimated attendance: 2,000.

Seattle Sounders vs. LA Galaxy: At CenturyLink Field.  1 PM – 3 PM.  Estimated attendance: 35,000.

Mercer x Summit Block Party: Free all ages music and art event on Summit Ave. between Mercer and Roy St.  Event hours are 1 PM to 11 PM.  Estimated attendance: 875.

Liberty or Death – Rally Against Left Wing Violence: Rally at Seattle City Hall.  3 PM – 8 PM.  Estimated attendance: 3,000.

Belltown Block Party: Event will close 2nd Ave. between Blanchard and Lenora Streets.  5 PM – 2 AM.  Estimated attendance: 730.

Seattle Mariners vs. LA Dodgers: At Safeco Field.  First Pitch: 7:10 PM.  Estimated attendance: 43,000.

 

SUNDAY, AUGUST 19

Featured image by Hempfest | www.hempfest.org

Seattle Gift Show: At Washington State Convention Center.  Show hours: 9 AM to 5 PM.  Estimated attendance: 6,000.

Viking Dash 5K, 10K, 15K: At Magnuson Park.  Event hours: 9:30 AM to 12 PM.  Estimated attendance: 350.

Hempfest: 27th annual cannabis festival at Myrtle Edwards and Centennial Parks on Seattle’s waterfront.  Festival hours are 10 AM – 8 PM.  Estimated attendance: 30,000.

Seattle Mariners vs. LA Dodgers: At Safeco Field.  First Pitch: 1:10 PM.  Estimated attendance: 40,000.

 

More Travel Details…

  • August 17 – 19, 24/7 | 2nd Ave will be reduced to 2 lanes, from Pike to Union streets, for roadway reconstruction.
  • August 17 – 31, 24/7 | NB 1st Ave S will be closed, from S Washington to Cherry streets, for utility relocation.
  • August 18 – 19, 9 AM – 5 PM | 5th Ave will be closed, between Union and University streets, for construction involving crane work.
  • August 18 – 19, 24/7 | 35th Ave NE will be fully closed, from NE 45th to NE 55th streets, for paving work.

 

Sneak Peak @ Next Week…

Seattle Mariners vs. Houston Astros at Safeco Field:

  • August 20, 7:10 PM – 10 PM
  • August 21, 7:10 PM – 10 PM
  • August 22, 1:10 PM – 4 PM

The Smashing Pumpkins concert at Key Arena, August 24, 7 PM – 10 PM.

Belltown Crush Block Party Beer and Wine Festival, on Bell St between 4th and 2nd avenues, August 25, 3 PM – 7 PM.

The South Lake Union Night Market will close 9th Ave, John St to Denny Way, August 25, 4 PM – 10 PM.

Seattle Children’s Park to Park Swim, from Matthews Beach to O.O. Denny Park in Kirkland, August 26, 7:30 AM – 11 AM.

Seattle Marathon Summer 5K/10K Race at Seward Park, August 26, 8:30 AM – 12 PM.

Cosmo 7K and 5K run & walk along Alki Beach in West Seattle, August 26, 9:30 AM – 11 AM.

Kawabe SummerFest! on 18th Ave S, August 26, 11 AM – 3 PM.

Celebrate Little Saigon 2018, at 1025 S King Street, August 26, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM.

 

More Info…

The Seattle Special Events Office has a great collection of calendars to keep you in the know. For updated event and advisory info, check out our Weekender Edition at the end of this week! For more details on travel impacts, visit our construction look-ahead and traveler’s map links, or…

 

Contact us!

Email us at construction.coordination@seattle.gov or call 206-684-ROAD (7623). Information subject to change. 
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What’s Moving Seattle | Weekender

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What’s new since the long list of goings on in What’s Moving Seattle This Week? Well, if Pearl Jam’s dedication to its Seattle home town isn’t moving, we don’t know what is, so we’re going with that one again! There’s a few other news morsels below…

 

Pearl Jams it again tonight!

Pearl Jam in concert Aug. 8, 2018 | Photo by Tim Durkan

Pearl Jam The Home Shows concert #2 at Safeco Field, 7:30 PM – 11 PM, with a cozy 45,000 estimated attendance. Of course, we knew this before–but now we have the close-up photo to share!

 

Making SR 99 Connections.

Image by WSDOT | Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Program

As part of the Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Program and its SR 99 Connections Project, WSDOT crews will  work on 1st Ave S Aug. 13-16 and Aug. 20-23. Expect overnight closures of 1st Ave S between S and Railroad Way S, 9 PM to 5 AM. Portions of the sidewalk may also be closed. If you have questions, email viaduct@wsdot.wa.gov or call 1-888-AWV-LINE.

 

Reviving I-5 this weekend.

We’ve made it through five I-5 revive weekends now, so what’s a little partial one starting tonight? Take note, from 8 PM until 5 AM Monday, Aug. 13, NB I-5 will be down to 2 lanes from Swift/Avenue Albro Place (Exit 161) to SR 520.  Express lanes will be closed all weekend in both directions.  In addition, from 2 AM to 12 PM Saturday and Sunday, NB I-5 will be reduced to two lanes from SR 520 to NE 45th St.  For all ramp closures, please check the WSDOT website!

 

 

More Construction News.

Lately, actually for the last five years, there hasn’t been a shortage of construction news and now is no exception. Being one of the fastest growing cities in the country keeps crews busy day and night, maintaining the transportation system!

 

S Dakota St/38th Ave S intersection closed Aug. 13 – Sept. 5:  If you drive near the Mount Baker neighborhood, prepare to avoid the S Dakota St/38th Ave S intersection for 3 1/2 weeks–unless you live there. That intersection will be closed to through traffic. We’re building new improved curb ramps at all 4 corners.

  • Traffic detoured to Rainier Ave S via S Andover St and S Genesee St.
  • Local access along 38th Ave S between S Andover St and S Genesee St.
  • Pedestrian path maintained through duration of this closure.

 

4th Ave & S Industrial Way intersection: We’re repairing several concrete panels in the SB lanes of 4th Ave S on Aug. 11 & 12 – working 7 AM to 5 PM Saturday and finishing 7 AM – 5 PM Sunday, with concrete curing time. Traffic will be restricted to one lane in each direction. Also:

  • S Industrial Way SB Metro bus stop will be temporarily relocated about 100 feet north of its current location.
  • S Industrial Way south crosswalk will be closed during the project; the north crosswalk will remain open.

 

Olson Pl SW and 1st Ave S project continues: This is the 2nd of 4 weekends crews are working 7 AM to 9 PM daily to install traffic signaling at Olson Pl SW and 1st Ave S. This weekend the team will repave the roadway where there is currently about 70′ of steel plates. The goal of working 12+ hours/day is to finish the project by Aug. 26. Expect lane closures and drive safely!

 

Contact us!

Email us at construction.coordination@seattle.gov or call 206-684-ROAD (7623). For more information on travel impacts, check out our construction look-ahead and traveler’s map links.

 

Information subject to change. Additional construction or events may be planned in the Seattle area.

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