It’s time to get ready for the next phase of the #SeattleSqueeze, the period through 2024 where private and public construction projects will put pressure on our transportation system, changing how we all get around. As you are aware, we are in the midst of many major changes, and we need your help to keep people and goods moving safely.
On behalf of the Washington State Department of Transportation, Sound Transit, King County Metro and the City of Seattle, we’re here to help. Please read on to learn what you can do now to get yourself and your organization prepared for changes coming your way.
Here’s what’s happening:
- Waterfront Construction: In 2019, Waterfront Seattle will begin construction of the new Alaskan Way, Elliott Way, and Columbia Street Transit pathway in the footprint of the demolished viaduct.
- Seattle Transportation Benefit District: On September 21, 2019, King County Metro and the City of Seattle, through the voter-approved Seattle Transportation Benefit District, added over 650 new weekly bus trips to provide more transit service in Seattle.
- SR 99 Tolling: On November 9, the SR 99 tunnel will be tolled in both directions. Learn how SR 99 Tunnel tolling will work and get a free Good To Go! pass by filling out our short questionnaire. A Good To Go! pass and account is the only way to pay the lowest toll rates in the tunnel, ranging between $1 and $2.25 depending on time of day.
- Connect 2020: Weekend LINK closures in downtown Seattle on October 12-13, October 26-27 and November 9-10 to prepare for a 10-week period of major light rail service impacts beginning in January 2020.
Here’s what you can do:
- Plan ahead: Give yourself extra time to reach your destination and look for ways that you can shift the hours you commute or shift the modes of transportation you use. The changes you make have an impact on our whole transportation system!
- Spread the word: Please distribute the information in this email with your employees, constituents, community members, or other key stakeholders.
- Request a briefing: Our staff may be able to come speak with you and your organization to provide the latest information on the Seattle Squeeze, answer questions, and provide resources. Please provide the date, time, and location of the event when requesting a briefing!
- Learn more: Please visit the webpages listed above for more information and reach out to us with further questions or comments.
For more information, visit seattle.gov/traffic to quickly link to all these projects and find helpful tools and resources. Thank you for your continued coordination and support during the #SeattleSqueeze!