Phase 1 construction of the Westlake Cycle Track is wrapping up. Dependent upon the weather, phase 2 should begin in March.
In mid-February, construction included testing of concrete stamps in preparation for public art also coming to the Westlake corridor. Fabrication of an art piece, named ‘JewelBoats’ and created by Jennifer Dixon, has begun. The piece is intended to use boat forms to reflect the motion and fluidity of Lake Union. A custom-designed stamp will run along the concrete buffer separating the parking from the cycle track, with a mirror stainless steel sculpture, called ‘Diamond Speedboat’, will stand at the north end of the cycle track. Two glass mosaic sculptures, called ‘Glacier Canoes’, will stand at the south end, on each side of the entrance to the cycle track. Finally, boat-inspired stainless inlays will be placed in the ground at the foot of the stairs of the Galer Pedestrian Overpass.
The concrete stamping will be done in late February, with construction allowing for cycle traffic to pass through the Westlake parking area in both directions at the same time. Typical work times for construction will be 7a – 4p, Monday – Friday, although extra time may be needed if weather delays work.
As always, as part of this construction, Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) asks everyone to be sure to look out for fellow travelers – in cars, on motorcycles, riding bicycles or walking. See the SDOT website ‘Vision For Safer Streets’ to read about ‘Vision Zero’ and their plan to end traffic deaths and serious injuries in Seattle by 2030.
For more on the Westlake Cycle Track program, and why this construction is being done, please visit the SDOT WCT webpage – or contact wct@seattle.gov or 206/909-8578.