The Seattle Department of Transportation began construction today on the West Thomas Street Pedestrian and Bicycle Overpass Project, which when completed, will unite Lower Queen Anne to Myrtle Edwards Park and connect the neighborhood and its residents directly to the waterfront.
Once completed the bridge will provide a safe crossing over the east side of Elliott Ave W at Thomas Street and the nearby railroad tracks, to Myrtle Edwards Park.
Crews kicked off construction on the east side of Elliott Avenue West, adjusting the construction schedule to accommodate Hempfest’s 20th anniversary festival at Myrtle Edwards this past weekend. Crews will commence construction at Myrtle Edwards beginning after next Monday, August 29.
We got a first look at what the bridge will look like in August of last year. In the same month Seattle City Council unanimously voted to remove spending restrictions on the project, giving SDOT the green light to move forward with the plans. The final project design was completed in January.
SDOT estimates that construction will last anywhere from 10 to 12 months. During that time residents can expect intermittent street closures, traffic detours, reduced parking areas and temporary relocation of the existing bike path at Myrtle Edwards Park. Here’s a little more information from SDOT on what to expect during construction:
During construction pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers should expect the following:
- 3rd Ave West from W. Harrison St. to Elliott Ave W will be closed to through traffic. Local traffic and access to parking garages and lots will be accommodated.
- W Thomas St between Elliott Ave W and 3rd Ave W will be closed to through traffic. Local traffic and access to parking garages and lots will be accommodated.
- Removal of parking along 3rd Ave W and a portion of W Thomas St both east and west of Elliott Ave W for the duration of the construction project.
- Temporary lane closures on Elliott Avenue West outside the hours of 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- Temporary sidewalk closures, parking restrictions and pedestrian detours.
- Noise and vibration during certain construction activities.
- Shaft construction is expected to be completed on the east half of the bridge sometime in mid-September at which time equipment will be mobilized to the west of Elliot Ave.
The W Thomas Street Overpass Project is being funded by the Park Levy I and II, Puget Sound Regional Council Grant Funds, King County Grant Funds, and private donations. The total project cost expected to be approximately $10 million. Initial work on the bicycle/pedestrian overpass project began in 2003.
For more information on the project and construction updates, see SDOT’s W Thomas Street Overpass Project website.