Frequently-Asked Questions about sidewalk construction

1. What is your project timeline?

Our 2009 sidewalk projects will be constructed beginning in summer 2009. This website will be updated with specific dates once they are known. Our projects are currently at 60% design. We will begin contacting property owners to discuss any impacts to their property in late February so that any problems can be resolved by mid-April when our design will be complete.

2. Why is SDOT constructing a sidewalk on this block?

SDOT is committed to making Seattle the most walkable city in the nation. Sidewalks are a key component of the walking network. With funding from the Bridging the Gap levy, the SDOT Sidewalk Development Program is now able to construct many blocks of new sidewalk each year. In 2008 we constructed 15 blocks of new sidewalk; in 2009 we will build 25 blocks.

Our projects are selected using prioritization criteria that consider several factors. These include distance to parks, schools, community centers and transit. Our 2009 projects are also being targeted within designated urban villages.

Please click here to see SDOT's current sidewalk prioritization criteria. In future years, new sidewalk constructed will be prioritized through the Seattle Pedestrian Master Plan. A draft of this plan will be available for comment in Spring 2009. More information can be found on the project website

3. How can I request a sidewalk on another block?

The SDOT Sidewalk Development Program selects projects through a prioritization process using the criteria described above. The Neighborhood Street Fund (NSF) Program constructs projects proposed by residents. For more information about putting in a request for this program, please click here

4. What will the new sidewalk look like?

A typical sidewalk is six-feet wide and constructed of concrete. Whenever possible we also include a planting strip that is wide enough for plants and trees.

5. How will this project affect parking on my street?

This will depend on the specific street. Wherever possible, parking will be permitted on both sides of the street. Parking will typically be parallel parking. Please see the webpage for a specific project for details as soon as they are available.

6. Can I plant something (trees/landscaping)?

Planting strips or tree pits will be constructed as part of the sidewalk project as space allows and we will install all landscaping as part of the project. Please contact us if you would like to discuss the options for plantings on your block.

7. How long will construction last? How much of an impact will it be to my community?

Construction will be as rapid as possible. The typical project takes 8 weeks, including equipment set up, concrete work, and site clean up. Parking restrictions, temporary driveway closures, and other detours may be necessary during actual construction. We will work to minimize these disturbances. Please contact us if there is something we should know about as we schedule construction.

8. Can I see the actual plans?

Certainly. Plans will be finalized in mid-April and be posted to the specific project webpage. If you have trouble viewing the plans, please contact us for a paper copy of the plan document.

9. Will you include any art on the new sidewalk?

SDOT now has an artist-in-residence who is looking for opportunities to add art on our sidewalk projects. The most likely art possibility is a texture stamp at the corners of the new sidewalk panels. If you have ideas for other small art possibilities, please contact us by the end of March.

10. When will the plans be finalized?

The final plans will be ready in mid-April. We will be contacting any property owners and residents whose properties will be impacted before our plans are finalized.

11. How will the sidewalk tie into my property (landscaping / driveway /etc.)

This will depend on several factors related to your specific property. The project manager will contact all property owners that are expected to have impacts during construction.

12. What is a Temporary Construction Easement and why do I need to sign one?

If during the course of new sidewalk construction SDOT or contractor crews need to access your property, we must ask you to sign a temporary construction easement. In many cases, our crews will only set foot on your property in order to successfully construct the sidewalk and will not impact anything on your property. In other cases, we may have to adjust your driveway to better align with the new sidewalk. SDOT staff will be contacting property owners beginning in mid-February if a temporary construction easement is required.

13. Who can I talk to about existing problems on my property? Will this project fix these problems too?

Funds for the sidewalk program are reserved strictly for sidewalk construction. We will mitigate any impacts that our project causes, but will not be including any changes that are not part of our project or in the public right-of-way. If you have an existing drainage concern, contact Seattle Public utilities at (206) 684-3000. For questions regarding code compliance, contact the Department of Planning & Development at (206) 684-8600. For all other questions, contact the Mayor’s Customer Service Bureau at (206) 684-2489.

14. How can I get more information?
    
    There are several ways you can contact us.
1. Via the website
2. By phone or email: Doug Cox, Project Manager, 206-684-8264, Douglas.cox@seattle.gov
3. Sign up for announcements