The Seattle Department Of Transportation (SDOT) will begin construction in January on the new Westlake Cycle Track, with the finished bike route expected for completion in summer 2016.
This hotly debated project is intended to build a dedicated cycling lane along Westlake Avenue, within the parking area and alongside the existing pedestrian/bicycle lane. Due to its major use as a transit and freight route, during planning the City promised that the cycle track will not narrow the roadway once completed. The cycle track is expected to give cyclists a better, faster, safer, and less obstructed route between the Fremont Bridge and South Lake Union.
Phase 1 work will be done first, and will focus on the area of Westlake between Crockett St and the south end of Railroad Park. In Phase 1, work will include:
- tree removal
- temporary parking restrictions
- pavement breaking and removal
- installation of ‘no parking’ signs
- establishment of a work zone
- increased noise and dust
- traffic redirection within the Westlake parking area
Typical work hours on this project will be 7a – 4p, Monday – Friday. Construction crews will be working on the east side of the Westlake parking area adjacent to the sidewalk.
Find out more on this project on the SDOT website. For specific questions, contact wct@seattle.gov or the hotline at 206/909-8578.