The City of Seattle has embarked on a transformative project to enhance safety and accessibility along the central waterfront. This collaborative effort between SDOT, the Port of Seattle, and Cascade Bicycle Club aims to create a more connected and inclusive environment for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. Construction began in December 2024, with completion slated for summer 2025. The project is part of broader initiatives to revitalize Seattle’s waterfront, ensuring it remains a vibrant and accessible space for all.

Shaping Tomorrow's Waterfront Today

Innovative Bike Infrastructure Enhances Mobility

The introduction of a two-way protected bike lane along Alaskan Way represents a significant leap forward in urban mobility. Stretching from Virginia Street to Broad Street, this 0.6-mile lane will provide cyclists with a safer, more direct route along the waterfront. By positioning the bike lane on the west side of Alaskan Way, the project ensures that cyclists can enjoy unobstructed access to key destinations while minimizing conflicts with vehicular traffic.This new infrastructure not only benefits local residents but also enhances the experience for tourists exploring Seattle’s iconic waterfront. The design incorporates feedback from cycling advocates and community members, ensuring that the final product meets the needs of all users. For instance, during cruise ship operations at Pier 66, cyclists will be directed to detour temporarily to the eastern side of Alaskan Way, ensuring continuous safety and flow.

Redefining Traffic Patterns for Enhanced Safety

Alaskan Way will undergo a redesign to prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety without compromising freight access. Reducing the road to two lanes—one in each direction—aligns with SDOT’s Vision Zero initiative, aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and severe injuries. This change will reduce speeding and improve visibility for all road users, particularly those on foot or bicycle.Intersection upgrades are another critical component of the project. Pedestrian head start signals, bike-specific traffic lights, and no-turn-on-red signs will be installed to enhance safety and reduce accidents. These modifications ensure that pedestrians and cyclists have ample time to cross safely, fostering a more harmonious coexistence between different modes of transportation. Moreover, these changes will contribute to smoother traffic flow, benefiting both commuters and businesses reliant on efficient freight movement.

Prioritizing Accessibility for All

Improving accessibility is a cornerstone of the Alaskan Way Safety Project. Sidewalk repairs and the installation of ADA-compliant curb ramps will make the waterfront more navigable for individuals with mobility challenges. This commitment to inclusivity extends beyond physical infrastructure; it reflects a broader vision of a waterfront that welcomes everyone.For example, the project will connect the Waterfront Park Promenade and Bike Path to the Elliott Bay Trail, creating a seamless network of trails and pathways. This connectivity will enable people of all abilities to explore the waterfront effortlessly, whether they are walking, biking, or using mobility devices. Additionally, the enhanced accessibility will support events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ensuring that visitors can move around the city with ease and safety.

Collaboration Drives Success

The success of the Alaskan Way Safety Project hinges on the collaboration between various stakeholders. SDOT, the Port of Seattle, Cascade Bicycle Club, and local businesses have worked together to craft a design that balances diverse needs. Feedback from community members has been instrumental in shaping the project, ensuring it addresses real-world concerns and enhances daily life.One notable outcome of this collaboration is the integration of the privately funded Elliott Bay Connections greenway. This initiative converts the George Benson trolley tracks into a protected bike lane, further expanding the waterfront’s trail network. Such partnerships exemplify how public and private sectors can work together to achieve shared goals, ultimately benefiting the entire community.

A Transformative Impact on Seattle’s Waterfront

As construction progresses, the impact of the Alaskan Way Safety Project becomes increasingly apparent. It is part of a larger vision to transform Seattle’s waterfront into a world-class destination that combines beauty, functionality, and accessibility. By enhancing mobility options and prioritizing safety, the project sets a new standard for urban development.Leaders like Mayor Bruce Harrell and SDOT Director Greg Spotts have emphasized the importance of this project in creating a vibrant, accessible waterfront. Their commitment underscores the collective effort to build a future where commerce and community coexist harmoniously. As the project nears completion, it promises to deliver a waterfront that serves as both a beautiful destination and a vital transportation corridor, enriching the lives of all who visit or call Seattle home.