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City of Seattle
Gregory J. Nickels, Mayor
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NEWS ADVISORY
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| SUBJECT: City Unveils Vision for Seattle Waterfront
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
7/26/2006 10:00:00 AM |
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Alan Justad (206) 233-3891
Alex Fryer (206) 684-8358
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City Unveils Vision for Seattle Waterfront
Includes major new public space, parks
and environmental improvements
SEATTLE - The city today unveiled a look at how Seattle’s waterfront
could be transformed into a place for parks, people, open space, views and
the environment if the Alaskan Way Viaduct is replaced by a cut-and-cover tunnel.
Environmental, transportation and community leaders joined with Mayor Greg
Nickels to praise the city’s “Central Waterfront Plan” as
a guide to the once-in-a-lifetime chance to replace an aging, elevated freeway
with new public space along the shore of Elliott Bay. The event marked the
completion of the concept plan, which will be sent to City Council for consideration.
The plan envisions reclaiming the waterfront for civic space, public promenades,
shoreline restoration, environmental improvements, historic preservation, education,
arts and new connections to the city.
“This plan reflects the values we hold as a city,” Nickels said. “A
tunnel unlocks a potential that has been hidden in the shadows and noise of
an elevated freeway for 50 years. This plan shows how we can create a waterfront
for people, with more open space, light, views and parks; a place for learning,
exploring and enjoying the natural beauty of Elliott Bay, and a place where
people can touch the water -- and get in touch with our past.”
An illustration of the major pedestrian promenade envisioned under the plan
was on view. The promenade would be 70 feet wide along portions of the waterfront
and would provide continuous, significant public gathering and viewing areas.
Of equal importance are the plan’s shoreline improvements to support
marine life and improved connections to the rest of downtown Seattle, including
the Pike Place Market.
“This is our chance to make great history,” said Sally Bagshaw,
a member of the Allied Arts Board of Trustees. “By embracing the principles
of the waterfront concept plan, we can create an unparalleled waterfront for
all.”
The plan is based on the state’s and city’s preferred tunnel option
for replacing the aging viaduct, and includes the rebuilding of the failing
seawall.
The plan is available online at: http://www.seattle.gov/DPD/Planning/Central_Waterfront/Overview/
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Office of the Mayor
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