Changes are coming to 3rd and Yesler in downtown Seattle!

Seattle Department of Transportation logo

Dear neighbors and visitors to 3rd Ave and Yesler Way,

 

We’re excited to inform you about some upcoming changes to the intersection of 3rd Ave S and Yesler Way that will make it safer and easier for people to get around. 3rd Ave is one of the most important transit corridors in the city. The 3rd and Yesler intersection is a major bus thoroughfare and transfer point for Pioneer Square Link light rail riders. These upcoming changes are part of our ongoing effort to improve safety, mobility, and accessibility on 3rd Ave.

 

The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) is also making changes to other areas in downtown Seattle. Visit our project website to learn about all the changes we’re making to 3rd Ave.

 

We’re getting ready to begin construction at 3rd and Yesler this summer. The project will include the following changes:

  • Install a new, wider concrete sidewalk where we added temporary paint and posts in 2022
  • Plant new street trees
  • Add lighting and new signs for people walking and rolling
  • Install new concrete curb bulbs to make street crossings shorter
  • Install new bike traffic signals to allow people biking to safely cross 3rd Ave
  • Install a permanent protected bike lane on Yesler Way and repave the bike lane on Dilling Way
  • Redesign the bike crossing at 3rd Ave to separate people on bikes from people walking
  • Remove a decommissioned bus stop on Yesler Way and add a new loading zone in its place

 

We know that construction can be disruptive, and we appreciate your patience as we work to make these improvements. Here’s what you can expect during construction:

  • Work will start as soon as summer 2024 and will last approximately 3 months
  • Temporary lane closures, parking restrictions, and sidewalk detours will be in place during construction
  • Access to businesses and residences will be maintained at all times
  • Transit service will continue to operate on 3rd Ave. Some bus stops may be temporarily relocated or closed. Please check King County Metro’s website for the latest information
  • People biking will need to follow signed detours around the work zone
  • Noise, dust, and vibration are likely during construction

 

We will provide updates on the project status, schedule, and impacts through our project email. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at 3rdAveImprovements@seattle.gov or 206-900-8729. To learn more about this project, visit our website.

 

Sincerely,

Matthew Howard, Project Outreach Lead 

3rd Ave Improvements

3rdAveImprovements@seattle.gov