Other City Initiatives & Programs

Pedestrian Masterplan > Policies and Programs > Other City Initiatives & Programs

SDOT Pedestrian Program
The Seattle Department of Transportation’s (SDOT) Pedestrian Program seeks to improve pedestrian safety and to encourage more walking by creating an environment where pedestrians can walk safely and comfortably. Among many other activities, the Pedestrian Program:

• Installs sidewalks, curb ramps, and marked crosswalks
• Installs and maintains pedestrian and school crossing signs
• Constructs curb bulbs and crossing islands at pedestrian crossing locations

Safe Routes to School Program
Creating safe walking and biking routes to Seattle schools is a top priority for SDOT’s Safe Routes to School Program. The program aims to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety near schools through education, encouragement, enforcement, and engineering efforts. The purpose of this program is to:

• Improve safety along designated school walking routes
• Increase the number of students who walk or bike to school
• Provide students and parents attractive alternatives to vehicular transportation
• Promote healthy, active lifestyles

Wayfinding Program
SDOT is installing signs to make it easier for pedestrians to navigate Seattle’s Center City and to encourage the use of public transit. Signs direct the public to key attractions like the Pike Place Market and transit access points. The new signs are cost effective and easy to update and maintain. Signs are easy to read and understand and incorporate internationally recognized symbols such as an “i” for “information.” A number of neighborhoods and trails, such as the Cheshiahud Loop Trail, are also receiving new wayfinding.

Downtown Seattle 2009: Public Space and Public Life Study
The Public Space and Public Life study is being prepared by Gehl Architects. The study provides a thorough analysis of Downtown Seattle's spaces, networks, and cultures and makes both short- and long-term recommendations that can shape the livability and public life of the Center City. Portions of the study will be available for download from the SDOT website in fall 2009.