Work began this week on expanding Second Avenue’s protected bike lane in downtown Seattle. Construction for the project began in March and will continue throughout the end of 2017. The improvements will organize the street and move people around in a safer and more efficient manner. Once complete, the lane will run from Denny Way to Yesler.
The 10-foot wide lane currently runs north and south between Pike to Yesler. The lane features both concrete barriers to protect cyclists and signal improvements to prevent collisions. The work that began this week will extend the same safety features another five blocks north to Blanchard.
According to SDOT, crews began work on September 19 to prepare the road and install new pavement and concrete barriers. This phase of the project will take approximately two weeks. However, due to weather conditions this could be rescheduled. The remaining work from Blanchard to Denny should then be completed by the end of the year.
In addition to the bike lanes, there will also be three new traffic signals installed at Cedar, Clay and Vine streets. This will allow for safer turns on and off Second Avenue and make it easier for pedestrians to cross the street. Current signals will also be upgraded with left turn pockets for drivers to turn left. This will be separate from the signals for people walking and biking.
The project is part of the city’s Vision Zero plan to end traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2030. The improvements also contribute to SDOT’s goal to provide people who live, work, and play in Seattle with multiple travel options to best suit their needs.
