Sand Point Way NE

What's happening now?

May 2019 - Project update

Following the outreach we completed last spring and summer, we have been continuing project design and incorporating feedback we received into the project. We gathered input from over 90 people at two public drop-in sessions and an additional 1,180 people through an online survey. From this we heard strong support for new sidewalks, slower speeds, and safer crossings along the Sand Point Way NE corridor. In response to the feedback we heard, we are planning the following corridor treatments (see project map below):

  • New sidewalks between NE 70th St and NE 77th St
  • Speed limit reduction from 40 MPH to 35 MPH between Princeton Ave NE and NE 74th St. (completed early 2019)
  • Signal timing upgrades to enhance pedestrian crossings at Princeton Ave NE, NE 65th St, NE 70th St, and NE 74th St
  • Pedestrian crossing improvements at NE 77th St, NE NOAA Dr, NE 95th St, and NE 123rd St
  • A reconfiguration of NE 74th St intersection (see graphic below)
In 2019, we will be implementing early spot projects at NE 77th St, NE NOAA Dr, and NE 95th St, and NE 123rd St. Construction notices will be mailed out.
In 2020, we will begin construction on the new sidewalks along Sand Point Way and the other intersection improvements described above.  

 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)

Project Area

Sand Point Way Corridor Project Area Map
Click to enlarge

NE 74th St Intersection Reconfiguration

Intersection of NE 74th St and Sand Point Way

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 to inform project priorities and scope

Outreach and design continues through 2018.

2019

Continue outreach and project design.

Begin construction at NE NOAA Dr, NE 95th St, and NE 123rd St. 

2020

Begin construction of new sidewalks between 70th and 77th and traffic signal modifications at NE 74th St. Implement leading pedestrian intervals at four intersections and a new marked crosswalk at NE 77th St. 

*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) 684-8105.