Community Notices

West Lake Union Improvement Project Construction Update
Week of December 6, 2002

Progress Report: The paving section at 2040 Westlake Avenue North has been asphalted and will be striped next week. Crews will be working overtime to ensure the paving sections between the 1500 and 1700 block of Westlake Avenue North will be ready for asphalt next week.

Continuing Work: Now that winter has arrived, the paving phase of the project will stop due to the closure of asphalt plants for the winter months. The plants are closed from mid December through February 1st. Crews will continue with concrete sidewalk and curb work during this time.

The final sections to be paved and completed prior to the plant closures are the 1200 through the 1700 block of Westlake Avenue North and China Harbor Restaurant to Crockett Street.
Note: Work is dependent on weather and temperature.

Lane Closure/Traffic: One southbound traffic lane on Westlake Avenue North between South Lake Union and the Fremont Bridge will continue to be closed until February. The street restoration concrete pour and access restoration at 2700 (Diamond Marina) will continue through the week. Mid-Mountain crews will form the new street and adjoining curb bulbs, and pour the new concrete midweek. Due to heavy loads expected on this surface, a long cure time for the concrete will be needed, with full restoration of this new area by the end of the week.

Some General Impacts: Limited and sometimes no parking in the specific areas under construction; periodic limited access; lane closures and traffic flaggers on Westlake Avenue North; noise from large construction vehicles; increase in dust and mud during construction.

During construction, impacts to the surrounding community and thru traffic are to be expected. The City of Seattle requests patience and cooperation from travelers and residents. City departments will work with the community in efforts to minimize impacts and disturbances.

Tips/Suggestions: While restoration is taking place at the 2700 block of Westlake Avenue North, please use the new parking access at either SeaRay or just north of Boat Electric until the new access is available.

As always, if you're not sure where to park, ask one of the flaggers on site for suggestions. They are familiar with the work going on and can direct you to areas that are available.

Please be aware of speed limits within the construction zones, and signage that may reflect current conditions of the construction area. When driving or walking, please watch for work crews and equipment along Westlake Avenue North.

NOTE: 24 hours notice is the city requirement for notification of "no parking" areas. Although we will do our best to notify owners of parked vehicles, if you work or live in the area, please pay attention to the NO PARKING signs to ensure your vehicle is not ticketed or towed.

The construction for the West Lake Union Improvement project is expected to last approximately until February 2003. Due to the nature of construction, schedules are likely to change. City departments will keep the community informed of the most current schedule.

For more information please check out our web site at www.cityofseattle.net/westlake. In addition, please continue to watch for upcoming notices regarding meetings and construction schedule.

For more information contact:

Karla Clark
Project Information Specialist
Seattle Public Utilities
(206) 615-0866
karla.clark@ci.seattle.wa.us