Learn more and share feedback at August 3 open house

Building the Northgate Pedestrian Bridge has been a priority for Feet First for several years.  We spearheaded a coalition effort that convinced local decisionmakers to dedicate $35 million to build the bridge. When completed, it will provide a direct connection between North Seattle College and the future Northgate light rail station, helping knit together a community historically divided by the I-5 freeway.

About a year ago, the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) determined that their original design was significantly over budget, necessitating a revisit of the original project scope. This spring, SDOT unveiled an updated design with a narrower bridge, sixteen feet instead of the originally planned twenty feet. Additionally, the approaches will be at a slightly steeper grade, although still meeting standards to accommodate wheelchairs and bicycles.

The new design is an improvement in two areas. The bridge itself will be significantly shorter and will take less time to cross. It also will improve safety and security by providing better visibility of the bridge deck from the street.

SDOT OPEN HOUSE

SDOT will be holding an open house on Thursday, August 3, 5:307:30 p.m.; you can drop in any time: Hampton Inn & Suites, 9550 1st Ave NE, Seattle. For more information, visit SDOT’s project webpage: http://www.seattle.gov/transportation/northgatepedbridge.htm.

The bridge remains on schedule to open by 2021 when the Northgate light rail station begins operation. Feet First and our coalition allies will continue to work with SDOT as the development of this important project proceeds.