Rainier Ave S Bus Lane Project Update
Construction of the Rainier Ave S Bus Lane Project began on September 3! Crews will work in segments along the project area through spring 2025.
Over the next two weeks, you will see the following construction activities near Rainier Ave S/S Grand St and Rainier Ave S/S Massachusetts St:
- Crews will begin constructing ADA curb ramps at the four corners of the intersection at Rainier Ave S and S Massachusetts St on Thursday, February 27
- Crews will begin demolishing the northeast corner of the intersection to install ADA curb ramps and install pedestrian signal push buttons
- They will work clockwise, beginning on the northeast corner, with each corner expected to take 3 – 5 days to complete, weather depending.
- During this construction, a single lane of both Rainier Ave S and S Massachusetts St will be temporarily closed to provide space for our work. Expect delays for the next three weeks around this intersection.
- As soon as Thursday, February 27, crews will begin installing wire traffic loops on Rainier Ave S. Expect temporary 3-hour lane closures and detours during this work.
What to expect during construction
Typical work hours are Monday - Friday, from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. During this time you can expect:
- Temporary traffic revisions to accommodate construction vehicles and equipment
- Temporary parking restrictions near work zones
- Noisy construction activities, such as vehicle backup alarms for safety, heavy truck use, and the use of power tools.
Construction Progress
 Crews paving asphalt on Rainier Ave S at S Grand St.
 Crews demolishing northeast corner of Rainier Ave S and S Massachusetts to construct ADA curb ramps and install pedestrian signal push button.
Project map showing extension of northbound bus only lane on Rainier Ave S, sidewalk repair work, and safety improvements at Rainier Ave S/S Grand St and Rainier Ave S/S College St.
This project includes the extension of the northbound bus lane on Rainier Ave S from S Walden St to S State St, along with other safety changes requested by community members to make it easier and safer to get around on this busy street. This project will improve the reliability of the Route 7 bus and get us ready for the future RapidRide R Line.
Through collaboration with King County Metro, our goal is to make transit an accessible, convenient, and reliable transportation choice. This project includes:
- New red painted bus lane between S Walden St and S State St in the northbound direction
- Sidewalk repair in areas where the most people walk and take the bus on Rainier Ave S
- At S College St and S State St:
- New signals to make it easier and safer for people to cross the street
- New marked crosswalks
- ADA-compliant curb ramps
- New Streetlights
We've been reaching out to community members, community-based organizations, and businesses in the project area and will continue to do so in the next few weeks. We want to share construction information with neighbors and community members.
Please visit our website to learn more about the project, and sign up to receive project updates. You can email us at TransitLanes@seattle.gov or call at (206) 257-2201.
Sincerely,
Ching Chan Public Engagement Lead City of Seattle, Department of Transportation
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