Sand Point Way NE

What's happening now?

In 2017, a transportation study was completed by a consultant to identify potential corridor enhancements along Sand Point Way NE. Since then, we've collected and reviewed traffic and speed data, and want to enhance Sand Point Way NE. Before we make plans, we want to hear from those who live, work and play along Sand Point Way NE. Our goal is to gather feedback on local conditions, opportunities and potential challenges along the street to help inform design.

May 2018 - Project update

We recently completed a few early outreach events and want to share what we heard from the community. These events included two public drop-in sessions with over 90 attendees, and an online survey with over 1,180 completed surveys. These events helped us gather feedback in March and April.

The full results from our first round of outreach can be found in our outreach summary also located in the materials section of this page.

Over the next few months, we will be working through the survey results and proposing additional upgrades to the corridor. Currently, we're planning the following:

  • New sidewalks on the west side of Sand Point Way NE from NE 70th St to NE 77th St
  • New sidewalks on the east side of Sand Point Way NE from NE 74th St to NE 77th St
  • Crossing improvements at the intersection of NE 74th St and Sand Point Way NE

Recent Coverage

We've recently received numerous communications asking about our plans for Sand Point Way NE, including whether they consist of a re-channelization  (often consists of re-designing a roadway from 4 lanes to 2 with a center turn lane, to improve traffic flow and safety) and the addition of bike lanes.

We want to clarify that the ideas for a re-channelization and the addition of bike lanes were provided as recommendations in a community-driven transportation study. This study was conducted by a consulting firm and informed us on the conditions along Sand Point Way NE and suggested ways safety could be improved. We understand there are concerns around these ideas. Along with a full review of these suggestions, we compiled speed and collision patterns along the corridor. We found that people primarily speed north of Magnuson Park and collisions are concentrated at intersections. View the collision and speed data - also available in the materials section (Drop-In Session Exhibit Boards) of this page.

At this time, we do not have any designs finalized and are in the very early stages of planning this project. We also recognize that the Burke-Gilman Trail runs parallel to Sand Point Way NE and provides a well-established option for people biking.

We are working with our Vision Zero and Sidewalk Development programs to make sure improvements contribute to a safer, more comfortable space for all travelers. 

To stay informed about upcoming events, please sign up for our project mailing list and/or keep checking our website for the latest updates and activities.

Background

Sand Point Way NE is an arterial street in northeast Seattle lined with single and multi-family homes. Sand Point Way connects many activity centers such as, University Village, University of Washington, Seattle Children's Hospital, Magnuson Park, and runs parallel to the Burke-Gilman Trail. 16,000 vehicles travel on Sand Point Way NE each weekday and many bus routes serve the corridor.

This project was originally identified by a resident in 2016, who submitted a request to fund sidewalk improvements as part of the Your Voice, Your Choice program. This request led to a transportation study completed in 2017. The study and a review of our citywide transportation plans showed that enhancing Sand Point Way NE would improve safety and accessibility for all travelers.

Project Goals

Our primary goals are to improve safety and mobility along the corridor, so people who live, work, and play along Sand Point Way can have a more comfortable, enjoyable experience. We also plan to improve access to Magnuson Park, and enhance the flow of traffic on Sand Point Way NE.

  • Increase safety and predictability for all travelers
  • Upgrade travel options for those who live, work, and play along Sand Point Way NE
  • Update intersections and enhance pedestrian crossings
  • Enhance access to transportation and recreation for people of all ages and abilities
  • Connect sidewalks to the existing sidewalks, walkways and biking network (Burke-Gilman Trail)

We aim to work with the community to identify common themes and develop solutions to the current challenges on Sand Point Way NE.

Project Area

Sand Point Way Corridor Project Area Map
Click to enlarge

Project Outreach*

2016

Community members applied for a Your Voice, Your Choice grant. The grant was used to fund a consultant study suggesting potential improvements for Sand Point Way NE.

2017

On January 25, initial findings from the consultant study were shared at a public meeting.

SDOT reviewed findings from the consultant study.

2018

Initial outreach begins.

Outreach and design continues through 2018.

2019

Construction begins.

Outreach will continue throughout construction.

*Subject to change

Project Funding

The initial study for this project was funded through Neighborhood Parks and Streets Fund, a program where community members can apply for small-scale improvements to streets and parks. Learn more about NPSF. In 2017, NPSF transformed into the Your Voice, Your Choice: Parks & Streets program.

The project is funded by the Levy to Move Seattle, a 9-year $930 million levy approved by voters in 2015.

Materials

Translation and Interpretation

If you need this information translated, please call (206) 256-5149.