LAKE2BAY will be the healthiest urban space in the world to live, work,
learn, study, create, visit, and play by:
• Maximizing the value of iconic public spaces and cultural
experiences by connecting Myrtle Edwards Park and the SAM
Sculpture Garden up through the Seattle Center and its surrounding
neighborhoods to South Lake Union Park.
• Leveraging the opportunities generated by market activity and
innovation
• Creating a comprehensive, connected and coherent mobility and
access system that emphasizes safe, attractive walking and biking
• Creating housing in neighborhoods that are affordable and
compassionately serve a full spectrum of residents
• Emphasizing sustainable design in projects and buildings throughout
the area
2. LAKE TO BAY
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Lake to Bay Vision
The Lake to Inventory and Opportunities
work included a deep review of existing
conditions; including research on
transportation, topography, land uses,
environmental conditions, current
amenities, policy documents, and gaps
along with future opportunities.
This analysis resulted in a re-imaged
vision of the Lake to Bay as a city-defining
connection between the north end of the
waterfront and South Lake Union, along
with a focus on creating a high quality
public realm for the Lake to Bay zone.
This work was supported by the Lake2Bay
Coalition, Seattle Parks Foundation,
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and
Vulcan Real Estate.
Create the healthiest urban
space in the world to live,
work, learn, study, create,
visit and play!
LAKETO BAY2
4. Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
BELLTOWN
UPTOWN South Lake
Union
PROJECT STUDY AREA
LAKETO BAY4
5. Major gaps in the physical environment hinder a friendly,
exciting, fun, high quality experience
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
Stronger
Stronger
Stronger
Reconnect
Ped + Bike Improvements
GAPGAP
Gap east of Seattle Center will be
reconnected with Alaskan Way Viaduct
Replacement Project. There are no
existing plans to remove the gap along
Broad Street. Leadership will be needed
to reconnect the Olympic Sculpture Park
and Seattle Center.
LAKETO BAY 5
6. Goals + Ambition
Lake to Bay
What is Lake to Bay?Lake to Bay aims to be a model for the
future, integrating residential and work
spaces with cultural activities, natural
systems, and delightful ways to move
through the neighborhoods.
The ambition for Lake to Bay is high and
city-defining, connecting iconic buildings
and spaces from Lake Union to Elliot Bay.
It is a Zone
It is a Route
It is an Idea
LAKETO BAY6
7. What does Lake to Bay do?
4
3
2
1 CONNECTS LAKE UNION TO ELLIOT BAY IN A CITY-DEFINING ROUTE
FOCUSES ON SEATTLE CENTER AS THE CENTER
LEVERAGES CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION WITHIN THE PUBLIC REALM
SUPPORTS HIGH QUALITY URBAN NEIGHBORHOODS
LAKETO BAY 7
9. City-Defining Ambition
Examples from around the world
1
3 4 5
2Highline, NYC
Lombard Street, San Francisco, CA Hollywood, CA La Rambla, Barcelona
San Antonio Riverwalk, San Antonio, TX
LAKETO BAY 9
11. Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
SUPPORTS HIGH QUALITY URBAN
NEIGHBORHOODS3
LAKETO BAY 11
12. Model for High Quality Urban Neighborhood
Examples from around the world
1
3 4 5
2Terry Avenue North, Seattle, WA
16th Street, Denver, CO Portland, OR 8th Street, Washington DC
Parklet, San Francisco, CA
LAKETO BAY12
13. Connecting People, Creativity + Innovation in the Public Realm
1 2
3
Creative transportation
Creative and accessible ways to move
1. Outdoor Street Escalator
Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
2. Trampe CycloCable Bike lift
Trondheim, Norway
3. Axle Contemporary Art Gallery Bus
Santa Fe, New Mexico
4
LAKETO BAY 13
14. Connecting People, Creativity + Innovation in the Public Realm
1 2
Curated and idea generating public space
Creating Seattle’s LIVING LABS
1. BMW Guggenheim Lab : A mobile laboratory traveling around
the world to inspire innovative ideas for urban design and urban
life. Traveled to NYC, Berlin and Mumbai from 2011 - 2014
2. Moving Icon by Kalhöfer-Korschildgen : pop-up museum
moves around the German region of Westphalia – providing
residents a rare insight into local history.
3. Living Innovation Zone, San Francisco
Description of LIZ from mayor: The Living Innovation Zone
Program (LIZ) seeks to create a flexible framework that
harnesses the city’s creativity by using City-owned assets, such
as public spaces, and partnerships with leading organizations
as catalysts for exploration, innovation and play3
BMW Guggenheim Lab: NYC, Berlin and Mumbai
Living Innovation Zone, San Francisco
Moving Icon pop-up museum : Germany
LAKETO BAY14
15. Connecting People, Creativity + Innovation in the Public Realm
1 2
3
Physical + Digital installations
Innovative wayfinding and access to
information
1. IBM Thinkwall
New York City, NY
2. Digital Carpet and Starpath
Products that illuminate pathways
3. Way-finding kiosk Pearson Lloyd
Westfield London, England
New York City
Westfield London, England
Currently in prototype
LAKETO BAY 15
16. Connecting People, Creativity + Innovation in the Public Realm
1 2
3
Seattle inspires
The Next Generation “World’s Fair”
1. La Biennale, Venice, Italy
2012 Russian Pavilion QR code room
2. Seattle Center Bumbershoot Annual Event
3. 1962 Seattle’s World Fair
Venice, Italy Seatle, WA
Seatle, WA
LAKETO BAY16
17. “Seattle’s fair left the city with
a permanent cultural nexus and
major infrastructure...
It gave us a refurbished waterfront, streetside trees and
new facilities at the University of Washington. It helped
boost major projects, such as the completion of Interstate
5 through downtown and the SR 520 bridge. It bequeathed
to us Seattle Center, a permanent complex of theaters,
pavilions, the Pacific Science Center, Coliseum (now
KeyArena), Center House, Opera House, the Monorail and
open urban space. It gave us an international civic symbol,
the Space Needle, second only to the Eiffel Tower as a
world’s fair souvenir and a tourist attraction known around
the world.”
Seattle Magazine, Febuary 2012, Back to the Future: Why Seattle’s World’s
Fair Mattered. By: Knute Berger
What would a world’s fair for our
generation look like?
LAKETO BAY 17
18. Opportunities
Lake to Bay
Along this city-defining Lake to Bay
route, key locations are recognized as
opportunities for new development and
ideas.
The following images portray a vision
to identify the opportunity and to set the
highest level of ambition.
BROAD STREET
THOMAS STREET WEST OF AURORA
MERCER ENTRYWAY
THOMAS STREET AT THE BRIDGE
NORTH WATERFRONT CONNECTION
BROAD STREET TRIANGLE
BROAD / THOMAS INTERSECTION
LAKETO BAY18
19. Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Stre
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
BAY
LA
LAKETO BAY 19
20. NORTH WATERFRONT CONNECTION
Connects to the Central
Waterfront Project
Acts a giant green sponge for
water runoff
Pedestrian Connection to the
Olympic Sculpture Park
Connections and Future Vision
Our Ambition
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
BAY
LAKE
LAKETO BAY20
21. NORTH WATERFRONT CONNECTION
connection to waterfront
green infrastructure
connection to Olympic Sculpture Park
Connections and Future Vision
LAKETO BAY 21
24. Broad Street
Connections and Future Vision
Road Diet, Pedestrian
priority
Curated Sculpture Park to
Sculpture Park connection
Everyone can go up the
hill, easy access
Highlight the Elliot Bay
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
BAY
LAKE
Our Ambition
LAKETO BAY24
28. Broad Street Triangle
Connections and Future Vision
Provide a pleasant resting
spot and waiting zone
Connect Art and
Science through fun and
interactive elements
Provide a clear way to
the Seattle Center and
Olympic Sculpture Park
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
BAY
LAKE
Our Ambition
LAKETO BAY28
29. Broad Street Triangle
Connections and Future Vision
Connection
Connection
SCIENCE CENTER
Expanded Right of Way for
Pedestrians
LAKETO BAY 29
32. Broad / Thomas Intersection
Connections and Future Vision
Safe and interesting
Pedestrian crossing
Extension of Seattle
Center boundaries,
providing a strong
entryway
Activation areas with
places to enjoy the
Seattle Center elements
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
BAY
LAKE
Our Ambition
LAKETO BAY32
33. Broad / Thomas Intersection
Connections and Future Vision
Seattle center
Active Crossing
New Broad Street Corner
LAKETO BAY 33
36. Thomas Street West of Aurora
Connections and Future Vision
Lighted Bike Path
pavement
Curated Space related to
Seattle City Light, keeping
the funk and highlighting
infrastructure
Night connection to and
from the Seattle Center
and South Lake Union
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
BAY
LAKE
Our Ambition
LAKETO BAY36
37. Thomas Street West of Aurora
Connections and Future Vision
bus hub
activities at Seattle Center
activities in South Lake Union
industrial influence
LAKETO BAY 37
40. Thomas Street at Bridge
Connections and Future Vision
Amplifying Thomas Street
Concept Plan
Neighborhood open space
spot
Park to Park connection
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
BAY
LAKE
Our Ambition
LAKETO BAY40
41. Thomas Street at Bridge
Connections and Future Vision
neighborhood anchor
Green Sponge
LAKETO BAY 41
44. Mercer Entryway
Connections and Future Vision
Strong Gateway to Seattle
Center, opening to the
neighborhood
Arts and Culture Incubator
space
Opportunity for civic
amenities such as a
STEAM school, arts &
culture incubator space
and tech hub
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
BAY
LAKE
Our Ambition
LAKETO BAY44
45. Mercer Entryway
Connections and Future Vision
Entry to Seattle Center
neighborhood connection
neighborhood connection
Gates Foundation
LAKETO BAY 45
49. Project Team ryway
Framework
CMG Futurewise
Framework was launched in 2013 by Lesley Bain, FAIA, and Jenny Kempson
with the goal of strengthening communities with thoughtful, artistic, and inspiring
places. Framework brings multiple design disciplines to the many aspects of
cultural placemaking. Combining architecture, urban design, art and research,
we aspire to work with creative clients to set new models for forward-thinking
cities.
www.weareframework.com
CMG is a landscape architecture firm providing award-winning
urban design, planning, stormwater management, and ecological
and habitat design for a wide range of project types and clients.
Principally, CMG specializes in the sustainability and livability of
cities.
From major redevelopment master plans to artistic installations,
CMG has developed cutting-edge sustainable designs that set
precedents and realize solutions. The integration of street life
and vibrant urban environments with infrastructure concerns,
stormwater management, and responsible design is CMG’s
passion.
http://www.cmgsite.com
Futurewise is working to build healthy livable communities,
protect our most critical working farmlands, forests, and
waterways, and create a better quality of life for present and
future generations. We believe smart growth solutions create
communities that thrive with strong local businesses and jobs,
safe efficient transportation choices, affordable places to live,
and healthy natural systems. We work with communities to
implement effective planning and policies that prevent waste
and stop sprawl. Together, we will create a better quality of life
in Washington State for present and future generations.
http://futurewise.org
LAKETO BAY 49
50. Appendix: Inventory
Lake to Bay
This appendix contains maps and materials
for the following adjacent categories. These
maps were created throughout the duration
of this project to assist in analysis.
Due to the initial scope, some maps relate
to the geographic area for the original Lake
to Bay Loop streets, while other maps
include the full Lake to Bay zone.
Alleys
Arts and Culture Hubs
Bike Routes and Counts
Bus Activity Heatmap
Bus, Streetcar and Monorail Routes
Canopy Overhead Experience
Developable Properties
Edge Condition Experience
Existing Planning Documents
Existing Elements in the Public Realm
Ground Floor Experience
Natural Systems
Memorial Stadium Size Diagram
Parking
Planning Documents Boundaries
Right of Way Width
Sidewalk Width
Street Trees
Use Zones
Walking Tour Mapping Example
LAKETO BAY50
51. Alleys
Denny Way
Thomas Street
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
BAY
LAKE
LAKETO BAY 51
52. Arts + Culture Hubs
Play
Play
Play
Create
Create
PlayCreate
Create
Innovate
Learn
Learn
Learn
Learn
Learn
Innovate
Innovate
Innovate
LAKETO BAY52
53. Bike Routes and Counts
Bike Lane
Sharrow
Bike Counts 2012
974 358
528 141
2172
1559
917
#
BAY
LAKE
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
data from City of Seattle
LAKETO BAY 53
54. Bus Activity Heatmap
BAY
LAKE
Average # of people at stop/day
> 175
176-449
450-999
1000-1659
1659-2805
KEY
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
data from King County Metro
LAKETO BAY54
55. Bus, Streetcar and Monorail Routes
BAY
LAKE
Average # of people at stop/day
> 175
176-449
450-999
1000-1659
1659-2805
Bus Route
Streetcar
Monorail
KEY
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
data from King County Metro
LAKETO BAY 55
56. Canopy - Overhead Experience
Denny Way
Thomas Street
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
BAY
LAKE
1
2
3
4
Building Canopy
Open Air
Tree Canopy
Tree - Building
data collected in the field by Framework
LAKETO BAY56
57. Developable Properties
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000250
Feet
Development Potential
Parcels with high
development potential*
Project extents
No data available
*Properties with developmnent
potential have been identified by
the City of Seattle’s analytical model
in their Development Capacity
Status Map model. This model does
not reflect property owner
preference or market conditions
which may produce different
results.
BAY
LAKE
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
0 500 1,0250
Fe
Development Potential
Parcels with high
development potential*
Project extents
No data available
*Properties with developmnent
potential have been identified by
the City of Seattle’s analytical model
in their Development Capacity
Status Map model. This model does
not reflect property owner
preference or market conditions
which may produce different
results.
BAY
LA
LAKETO BAY 57
58. Edge Conditions Experience - key on following page
Denny Way
Thomas Street
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
data collected in the field by Framework
LAKETO BAY58
59. Edge Conditions Experience Types
Edge Experience Types
Building - closed off
Building - opened
Active Sidewalk
Openspace
1
2
3
4
landscape setback
non-active entry/plaza
Wall or Fence
5
6
7
Parking
LAKETO BAY 59
60. Existing Elements in the Public Realm
1. Seating
2. Texture
Data collected in the field by Framework
LAKETO BAY60
61. Existing Elements in the Public Realm
3. Trash Receptacles 4. Bike Related
5. Signage
Data collected in the field by Framework
LAKETO BAY 61
62. Ground Floor Experience
Denny Way
Thomas Street
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Buy
Live
Work
Parking
KEY
Public
Industrial
Parks
Construction as of April 2014
BAY
LAKE
Data collected in the field by Framework
LAKETO BAY62
63. Memorial Stadium Size Comparison
Olympic Sculpture Park
9.95 Acres
Museum of History
and Industry
7.61 Acres
Memorial
Stadium
9.75 Acres
LAKETO BAY 63
65. Parking
BAY
LAKE
On-Street Parking
Parking Lots
Parks
KEY
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
LAKETO BAY 65
66. Planning Documents Boundaries - key on following page
3
5
6
12
8
9
10
11
13
14
15
16
7
4
1
2
Denny Way
Thomas Street
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
BAY
LAKE
LAKETO BAY66
67. Planning Documents Boundaries - Key
5
4
1
2
Uptown Neighborhood
Uptown Design Guidelines (2013)
South Lake Union Design Guidelines (2012)
South Lake Union Framework (2011)
South Lake Union Mobility Plan (2011)
Uptown Neighborhood Framework (2014)
South Lake Union Neighborhood
Belltown Neighborhood Plan (1998)
Belltown Viaduct Lands Study (2011)
North Waterfront Access Project (2002)
Terry Avenue North Design Guidelines (2005)
Thomas Green Street Concept Plan (2013)
Mercer East /Mercer West (2013 - in construction)
Thomas Street Bridge Overpass ( 2013 - complete)
UW Medicine Lake Union Facilities (in construction)
Centry 21 Masterplan (2008)
Broad Street Green (2009 - complete)
Uptown Triangle Charrette (2010)
Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Project (2011)
South Lake Union Concept Plans (2013)
3 Belltown Neighborhood
6
7
8
10
9
11
12
13
14
Cornish Master Plan - tbd15
August Wilson Way16
LAKETO BAY 67
68. Right of Way Width
0-40ft
40-60ft
60ft +
ROW Width
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
LAKETO BAY68
69. Sidewalk Width
0-10 ft
10-15 ft
15-20 ft
20ft +
Sidewalk Width
Denny Way
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
Thomas Street
LAKETO BAY 69
70. Street Trees
Denny Way
Thomas Street
Denny Way
Broad
Street
Mercer Street
Mercer Street
ElliotAvenue
W
W
estern
Avenue
Alaska
W
ay
2ND
Avenue
5TH
Avenue
DexterAvenueN
Valley Street
WestlakeAvenue
TerryAvenueN
BAY
LAKE
LAKETO BAY70
71. Use Zones
VISIT
WORK
8 million / year
~30,000 employees
183% growth
VISIT10 million / year
VISIT350,000 / year
Seattle Center
Amazon
LIVEBELLTOWN
1O3% growth
LIVEUPTOWN
16% growth
LIVEQUEEN ANNE
300% growth
LIVESouth Lake Union
WORK
~200,000 employees
Downtown
WORK
~ 1,200 employees
Gates Foundation
Pike Place Market
OSP
VISIT150,000 / year
Mohai
data collected from the Downtown Seattle Association 2011 Demographics Report and company websites
LAKETO BAY 71
72. Lake to Bay : Walking Tour Map Stakeholder Input
LAKETO BAY72
73. Appendix: Policy
Lake to Bay
The following report provides a review the
existing planning and policy documents
which may impact the design and
implementation of Lake to Bay as currently
conceived through this Inventory and
opportunities project.
Pedestrian Lighting Citywide Plan 2012
Seattle City Light 2013 – 2018 Strategic Plan
Right of Way Improvements Manual 2012
2013 – 2018 Adopted Capital Improvement
Alaska Way Viaduct North Portal Design 2011
Mercer East Corridor Project Plan 2012
Mercer West Corridor Project Plan 2012
South Lake Union Neighborhood Design Guidelines 2005
Terry Avenue North Street Design Guidelines 2005
South Lake Union Neighborhood Design Guidelines 2005
Seattle Pedestrian Master Plan 2009
Uptown Neighborhood Design Guidelines 2013
Uptown Triangle Planning Workshop 2010
Complete Streets Ordinance 2007
South Lake Union Mobility Plan 2011
Thomas Green Street Concept Plan 2013
South Lake Union Urban Design Framework 2010
Uptown Framework Plan* 2014
Seattle Bicycle Master Plan 2014
Downtown Seattle Public Spaces & Public Life 2009
Century 21 Master Plan 2008
Seattle Waterfront 2014
LAKETO BAY 73
75. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 2
Appendix: Policy Review Contents
Contents
Executive Summary.................................................................................. 3
Report Purpose..................................................................................... 3
Study Context........................................................................................ 3
Summary of Key Findings..................................................................... 5
Next Steps............................................................................................. 6
Seattle Pedestrian Master Plan................................................................ 7
Seattle Bicycle Master Plan...................................................................... 9
Bands of Green (2007) and Bands of Green Update (2011) ................. 13
South Lake Union Urban Design Framework......................................... 15
South Lake Union / Uptown Triangle Mobility Plan ................................ 18
South Lake Union Neighborhood Design Guidelines (2014 Update)..... 21
Terry Avenue North Street Design Guidelines ....................................... 23
South Lake Union Street Concept Plans................................................ 26
Thomas Green Street Concept Plan ...................................................... 29
Seattle Center Century 21 Master Plan.................................................. 33
Uptown Neighborhood Design Guidelines ............................................. 39
Sustainable Cities Design Academy, Uptown Triangle Planning........... 42
Denny Way Streetscape Concept Plan .................................................. 44
Strategic Plan for Realizing the Waterfront Seattle Vision ..................... 46
Waterfront 2020...................................................................................... 48
Downtown Seattle Public Spaces and Public Life Study........................ 50
Alaskan Way Viaduct North Portal Design ............................................. 52
Mercer Corridor Project .......................................................................... 56
Pedestrian Lighting Citywide Plan.......................................................... 59
Complete Streets Ordinance .................................................................. 61
Right of Way Improvements Manual ...................................................... 62
2013-2018 Adopted Capital Improvement Program............................... 65
The following document was prepared in support of the Lake to Bay
Inventory and Visioning Project in conjunction with Framework, JZ
Works and CMG Landscape Architecture under the direction of the
Lake to Bay Committee with financial support from The Seattle
Parks Foundation and Vulcan, Inc.
76. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 3
Appendix: Policy Review Executive Summary
Executive Summary
Report Purpose
The following report provides a review the existing planning and policy
documents which may impact the design and implementation of Lake to
Bay as currently conceived through the Inventory and Visioning Project
completed in June of 2014. It focuses on either City-wide planning
documents (like the Seattle Pedestrian Master Plan) or project specific
plans located in the Lake to Bay area (like Seattle Waterfront 2020). The
purpose of this policy review is to highlight where existing and planned
efforts are supportive, neutral or unsupportive of the vision and
implementation of Lake to Bay. A potential second phase of this project
will include specific policy recommendations and advocacy action items
related to these findings.
Study Context
History
The City of Seattle has long been committed to a city-wide system of
linear parks incorporating greenspace and recreational opportunities.
Beginning in 1892, Edward Otto Schwagerl, Superintendent of Parks,
created a plan for four major city parks on Lake Washington and Elliott
Bay connected by parkways. In 1900, George Coterrill, an Assistant City
Engineer, developed a plan for 25 miles of bicycle paths around the city.
These were then incorporated into the Olmstead Brothers’ 1903 parks
plan called “A Comprehensive System of Parks and Parkways” which
envisioned an ambitious and comprehensive network of parks and open
space throughout the city. The Olmstead Brothers worked for the City
until 1941 designing elements of the parks system which are still great
assets to Seattle today.
1
Lake to Bay continues this legacy of linear parks and boulevards.
Supported by a wide variety of stakeholders including The Seattle
Center, The Seattle Parks Foundation, the City of Seattle, neighborhood
groups and private developers, the Lake to Bay concept has been
developed over many years and continues to be refined. In 2001, the
Seattle Center spearheaded the creation of the “The Potlatch Trail:
Concept Plan”, a linear park connecting Lake Union to Elliott Bay through
the Seattle Center. This concept was further developed to be the Lake
to Bay Loop whose design and implementation is led by the Lake to Bay
Committee. The Committee supports the implementation and
improvement of Lake to Bay through planning, visioning and funding.
Most recently, they convened 95 city leaders for public visioning and
secured funding for way-finding signage along the route. Currently, the
trail is called the “Lake to Bay Loop”, and is branded as “Seattle’s Scenic
Urban Walking Trail.” It is comprised of a figure eight with two distinct
loops – the Lake Loop and the Bay Loop which connect at Seattle
Center.
1
Friends of Seattle’s Olmstead Parks
77. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 4
Appendix: Policy Review Executive Summary
Geography
Lake to Bay connects Lake Union and Elliott Bay through some of
Seattle’s most historic neighborhoods and its fastest growing, most
dynamic neighborhoods – Belltown, Uptown, Queen Anne, South Lake
Union, and Downtown, all connected through Seattle’s most iconic asset,
the Seattle Center. This area, particularly Belltown, South Lake Union
and Uptown are seeing significant growth in both housing and
employment and are the location of several infrastructure projects which
are changing the landscape of the built environment, re-establishing
connectivity between neighborhoods and expanding pedestrian and
bicycle networks. In addition, the area contains some of Seattle’s most
important cultural assets which are enjoyed by both local residents and
visitors, including:
Bill & Melinda Gates Visitor Center
Center for Wooden Boats
Denny Park
Experience Music Project
Key Arena
Lake Union Park
Museum of History and Industry
Myrtle Edwards Park
Pacific Science Center
SAM Sculpture Park
Seattle Center
South Lake Union Discovery Center
The map at right shows the Lake
to Bay area as well as the focus
areas of the plans reviewed in
this report.
The Vision
Under the leadership of the Lake to Bay Committee, the concept of Lake
to Bay has been refined and key projects implemented; however it has
not yet reached its full potential. The Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning
Project is intended to expand the Lake to Bay vision and ensure that the
ambition of Lake to Bay reflects the strength of the area’s assets and
potential. The vision, detailed in the main body of this report is three-
fold:
A Route – Create a city-defining boulevard which is nationally-
recognizable as “Seattle” anchored by Seattle Art Museum Sculpture
Park, Seattle Center and Lake Union.
A Zone – Create a “web” of great streets which connect
neighborhoods, provide multiple routes and connections for
pedestrians and cyclists and foster a strong sense of place and
vibrancy.
An Idea – The Lake to Bay area is a world center for innovation in
business, culture, science, philanthropy and education. The vision for
Lake to Bay is that this innovation and leadership is visible and
present for all who live, work or visit the area through street level
interactions, collaborations and learning.
Source: FRAMEWORK
78. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 5
Appendix: Policy Review Executive Summary
Summary of Key Findings
Of the three elements of Lake to Bay, current planning documents
are most supportive of the concept of the Lake to Bay area as
“web” of great streets connecting the surrounding neighborhoods.
Many of the street design guidelines and neighborhood design
plans recommend good practice in design which supports
increased opportunity for multi-modal transportation, creation of
public spaces, street activation through design and land use and
strategies to maintain and reflect the unique character and history
of the individual neighborhoods which intersect in the Lake to Bay
area.
Of all of the plans, Seattle Center Century 21 Master Plan and
Seattle Waterfront 2020 are most supportive of Lake to Bay as a
route which is a world-class destination and closely identifiable
with the City of Seattle. The ambitious plans for improvements to
both of these assets would support Lake to Bay both as a route
and as a destination itself.
Many of the plans which prioritize funding for infrastructure
improvements include the Lake to Bay area in their highest tier for
funding priority. Due to its high volumes of vehicular, pedestrian
and bicycle traffic, increasing number of residential units and jobs
and regional destinations, the area is typically seen as a prime
target of public investment for infrastructure and other
improvements.
Many of the plans in the following document set forth a street
hierarchy, including boulevards, green streets, festival streets,
arterials, etc. However, the hierarchies are not consistent with
each other nor are they supportive of Lake to Bay as the premiere
street through the zone. In particular, Thomas Street - which is
classified in many plans as a green street, compared to
Boulevards and other street typologies - will need to be featured
more prominently to make Lake to Bay stand out through the zone
of quality streets.
Many of the street design guidelines incorporate elements of
green infrastructure, both as an amenity and as an important
element of the urban ecological system. None of the plans
incorporate a comprehensive, area-wide green infrastructure
approach.
As mentioned above, Seattle Waterfront 2020 could be a great
complement to the Lake to Bay vision, anchoring the southwest
side of the route with a world-class amenity and destination. It is
imperative that the projects be perceived as synergistic and
mutually supportive. Particularly as funding mechanisms are
explored (including public, quasi-public and private), these projects
should not be put in a position of competing for public support and
funding.
Very few of the plans have associated funding. The primary
means by which the plans are implemented are either through the
Capital Improvement Program (CIP) or by voluntary
implementation by public or private entities during other
improvement projects. This leads to an inability to plan and
implement a large-scale vision which will necessarily incorporate
many smaller implementation steps.
None of the plans reaches the ambition of Lake to Bay as an idea
which inspires and reflects the innovation and leadership of the
institutions and businesses which are located in the area.
Particularly in regard to street activation beyond cafes and other
public spaces, there is not a definitive vision for street activation
which reaches the “best practice” tier that will differentiate Lake to
Bay within Seattle, the nation or the world.
As shown by the remainder of the document, there are a
significant number of plans which apply to the Lake to Bay area.
Ensuring that all of these plans are consistent with each other and
with the Lake to Bay vision will be necessary to provide the clarity
and prioritization needed to realize the most ambitious portions of
the Lake to Bay vision.
The City of Seattle is limited in public funding mechanisms and
must rely significantly on a limited pool of local funding sources
including taxing authority to implement public improvements. The
ability of Lake to Bay to secure funding from these sources will be
hampered by the large number of public projects and initiatives
contending for the same small pool of funds.
79. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 6
Appendix: Policy Review Executive Summary
Next Steps
As detailed in this plan, a significant number of planning studies have
occurred throughout the Lake to Bay area. Where these plans are
supportive of the Lake to Bay vision, it will be necessary to advocate for
their implementation through private redevelopment efforts, public
infrastructure projects or other implementation mechanisms. In
particular, advocacy related to the following should be prioritized:
Continue funding of Lake to Bay area infrastructure projects
through existing public funding mechanisms like the Capital
Improvement Program (CIP).
Incorporate public space and public improvements consistent with
the Lake to Bay vision into both public sector projects and private
development as it occurs, even through voluntary programs.
Where the Lake to Bay vision is not yet supported by existing planning
documents, processes or funding, it will be necessary to provide
leadership in the following areas:
Communicate the Lake to Bay vision to relevant stakeholder groups
for refinement and support.
Explore new funding mechanisms which will generate resources for
Lake to Bay.
Expand expectations of planning, design and construction of the
built environment in both the public and private arenas to support a
Lake to Bay that goes beyond “best practice.”
In order to fully realize the ambition of the Lake to Bay vision, inspiration
will be needed which goes beyond the built environment and expands
our existing concepts of street activation, design, public life and
community planning.
“Think big” and encourage ambitious, imaginative ideas which go
beyond existing silos of responsibilities, expectations and
collaboration.
Explore additional implementation avenues, both in the built
environment and in public area programming which expand beyond
current planning processes.
ADVOCATE
LEAD
INSPIRE
80. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 7
Appendix: Policy Review Seattle Pedestrian Master Plan
Seattle Pedestrian Master Plan
Produced by: Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT)
Date: September 2009
Geography: Citywide
Status: Being implemented on a project-by-project basis
Overview
The Seattle Pedestrian Master Plan provides the guiding principles for
City efforts to improve pedestrian facilities throughout the city. While the
plan does not include specific projects, it sets forth the overriding mission
and goals related to walkability in Seattle. In addition, it provides an
analysis which creates a framework for how to prioritize projects which
are then funded in annual project lists, primarily through “Bridging the
Gap” levy, and are incorporated into the Capital Improvements Plan.
Plan Mission
Make Seattle the Most Walkable City in the Nation
Plan Goals
Safety—Reduce the number and severity of crashes involving
pedestrians.
Equity—Make Seattle a more walkable city for all through equity in
public engagement, service delivery, accessibility, and capital
investments.
Vibrancy—Develop a pedestrian environment that sustains healthy
communities and supports a vibrant economy.
Health—Raise awareness of the important role of walking in
promoting health and preventing disease.
Design Elements
The Seattle Pedestrian Master Plan sets forth general components which
are supportive of walkable environments, but does not make particular
recommendations regarding specific design elements. The “pedestrian
toolbox” recognizes the following ways to improve pedestrian
accessibility:
Frontage Zone—Tools include signage, weather protection,
public/private interface, etc.
Walkable Zone—Tools include sidewalks, walkways, shared use
trails, stairways, and driveways.
Landscape/Furniture Zone—Tools include buffers, lighting, natural
drainage, public art, signage, street furniture, street trees/vegetation,
utilities, wayfinding, etc.
Curb Space Zone—Tools include curbs, curb ramps, curb bulbs,
parking, etc.
Travelway Zone—Tools include pedestrian overpasses and
underpasses, crossing islands, medians, intersection geometry, road
diets, roundabouts, traffic signals, traffic calming, traffic
management, etc.
Miscellaneous Development—Tools include physical and visual
connections, developer improvements, Street Types, mixed land
use, open space, parks, etc.
81. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 8
Appendix: Policy Review Seattle Pedestrian Master Plan
Project Prioritization
The Seattle Pedestrian Master Plan sets for a general policy of project
prioritization which is based on three factors:
(1) Potential Pedestrian Demand
(2) Socioeconomic and Health Priority
(3) Pedestrian Linkage Priority.
The Lake to Bay area scores high on all of these factors and all
segments of the loop are in areas that are ranked as Tier 1 or Tier 2 for
prioritization in project funding.
Projects are divided into “Across the Roadway”, which focuses safety
and comfort when crossing streets and “Along the Roadway” which
focuses on sidewalks, streetscaping and other elements.
Funding
The Seattle Pedestrian Master Plan projects are funded by the 2006
Bridging the Gap transportation funding levy, which was estimated to
provide approximately $60 million from 2009 to 2014.
Key Findings
The plan is generally supportive of increased walkability
throughout the city which is supportive of potential pedestrian
elements in Lake to Bay.
All areas of the Lake to Bay are included in Tier 1 or Tier 2
priority areas for project funding and implementation.
The Seattle Pedestrian Master Plan does not contain specific
projects – either new infrastructure or improvements/maintenance
of existing infrastructure. Those projects are determined on an
annual basis and incorporated into the Capital Funding.
The current Bridging the Gap levy is active through 2014. There
is currently no funding source for projects beyond 2014, although
there is a planned 2015 Bridging the Gap vote.
Actual projects are determined on an annual basis and it is
difficult to know what the mid-range or long-range funded projects
may be.. Source: Seattle Pedestrian Master Plan
82. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 9
Appendix: Policy Review Seattle Bicycle Master Plan
Seattle Bicycle Master Plan
Produced by: Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT)
Date: April 2014
Geography: Citywide
Status: Adopted
Plan Vision
Riding a bicycle is a comfortable and integral part of daily life in Seattle
for people of all ages and abilities.
Plan Goals
Ridership—Increase the amount and mode share of bicycling in
Seattle for all trip purposes.
Safety—Improve safety for bicycle riders.
Connectivity—Create a bicycle network that connects to places that
people want to go, and provides for a time-efficient travel option.
Equity—Provide equal bicycling access for all through public
engagement, program delivery, and capital investment.
Livability—Build vibrant and healthy communities by creating a
welcoming environment for bicycle riding.
Plan Objectives
Objective 1—Complete and maintain a safe, high-quality bicycle
network of on-street and trail facilities throughout the city.
Objective 2—Integrate planning for bicycle facilities with all travel
modes and complete streets principles.
Objective 3—Employ best practices and context sensitivity to design
of facilities for optimum levels of bicycling comfort.
Objective 4—Build leading-edge bicycle facilities, including on-street
separated facilities, multi-use trails, and neighborhood greenways.
Objective 5—Update and apply a prioritization framework for bicycle
investments throughout the city.
Objective 6—Identify and implement actions to support and promote
bicycle riding.
Bicycle Counts
As shown on the map at right, bicycle counts in the Lake to Bay area
were some of the highest in the city, particularly at the intersections of
Elliott Avenue and Broad Street as well as the intersection of Denny Way
and 5
th
Avenue.
Source: Seattle Bicycle Master Plan
83. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 10
Appendix: Policy Review Seattle Bicycle Master Plan
Plan Funding
The Seattle Bicycle Master Plan sets forth an ambitious list of proposed
network improvements detailed below. Funding for these projects will
require a variety of sources, including the Seattle Capital Investments
Program (CIP), incorporating bicycle facilities into other street
improvement projects using the Complete Streets standards, from MAP-
21 federal funding and from additional grant funding secured by Seattle
Department of Transportation.
Proposed Network Improvements
The Bicycle Master Plan’s recommended network has several facilities
which are located within the Lake to Bay context area, including
protected bike lanes on several segments, including:
North/South
Queen Anne Avenue N. between Roy Street and Denny Way (cycle
track)
1
st
Avenue N. between Roy Street and Broad Street (cycle track)
Broad Street from 2
nd
Avenue to Alaskan Way (cycle track)
2
nd
Avenue from Broad Street into downtown (cycle track)
5
th
Avenue from Roy Street to Cedar Street (cycle track)
Dexter Avenue from Roy Street to Battery Street (cycle track)
9
th
Avenue N. from Lake Union to Denny Way (cycle track)
East/West
Thomas Street from Elliott Avenue to Eastlake Avenue
(neighborhood greenway)
Republican Street from Dexter Avenue to Eastlake Avenue (in street,
minor separation)
Catalyst Projects
While not in the study area, one important recommendation from the plan
is a catalyst project which is a South Lake Union to Capitol Hill Interstate
5 crossing. While not specified in the plan, initial drawings indicate the
project could be located around Thomas Street. This project could
increase connectivity for both bicycles and pedestrians from Capitol Hill
through South Lake Union and into Lake to Bay.
Source: Seattle Bicycle Master Plan
84. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 11
Appendix: Policy Review Seattle Bicycle Master Plan
Design
The Seattle Bicycle Master Plan details suggested treatments for many types of bicycle facilities.
One-way Cycle Tracks
Two-way Cycle Tracks
In-Street, Minor Separation
Shared Street
Intersection Treatments
Source: Seattle Bicycle Master Plan
85. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 12
Appendix: Policy Review Seattle Bicycle Master Plan
Key Findings
Plan is supportive of increasing bicycle network through the Lake
to Bay area.
Plan proposes treatment options which align with Complete
Streets and other integrated bike/pedestrian/auto street design
frameworks.
Exact location of planned bicycle network may not be along key
Lake to Bay priority areas.
No catalyst projects included within the Lake to Bay area,
however Thomas Street I-5 overpass would significantly increase
East-West connectivity to Capitol Hill.
Bike Share
While not detailed in this plan, the coming Puget Sound Bike Share
program will have a significant impact on the ability of residents and
visitors to utilize the existing and improved bicycle network.
Partnerships with employers and other organizations will be a key
determinant in the location of bike share facilities and incorporation
of bike share in the Lake to Bay area will greatly enhance the area
as a cycling destination.
Source: Pronto! and Puget Sound Bike Share
86. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 13
Appendix: Policy Review Bands of Green
Bands of Green (2007) and Bands of Green Update (2011)
Produced by: Seattle Parks Foundation and the Seattle Department of Transportation
Date: Original report from 1990, with a major update in 2007, updated in 2011
Geography: Citywide
Status: Being implemented on a project-by-project basis
Overview
The focus of the Bands of Green plans is on linear parks and green
connections throughout the City of Seattle. Linear parks and greenways
were an integral part of the Olmstead Plan for Seattle and interest in
linear parks revived during the 1980s with the public’s support for the
construction of the Burke-Gilman trail.
Plan Goals
The 2007 Bands of Green study set forth the following goals:
Beautify the city;
Diversify and expand the routes available to walkers, runners, and
bicyclists;
Add greenery and character to city neighborhoods;
Improve the safety of public thoroughfares for bicyclists and
pedestrians;
Encourage the public to venture to parks they have seldom used;
and
Relieve overcrowding on existing trails and boulevards by expanding
the available resources.
Characteristics of a Good Linear Park
According to the 2007 plan, a good linear park incorporates the following
for characteristics:
Connection—The proposed boulevard or trail must connect major
open space resources such as parks, shorelines, panoramic views or
public activity centers.
Continuity—The route must flow to its destination(s) with a minimum
of man-made obstacles. The way must be clearly marked by
landscaping if possible and with monuments or signs otherwise.
Recreational Potential—When possible, a proposed boulevard
should be designed to encourage recreation as well as a utilitarian
use within the corridor. This means that pedestrians and bicyclists
should not be overwhelmed by multiple lanes of high-speed traffic.
Scenic Values—Proposed boulevards and trails should offer views of
significant natural features, historic structures and/or unique human
activities as well as opportunities to experience the natural
topography and landscape.
The Presence of Nature—Boulevards and trails should be
landscaped to reflect their important role in the city’s open space
system, and as a means of establishing continuity.
Character—The identity of a linear park is rarely established solely
with landscaping. Human-made elements – light posts, sea walls,
bridges, railings, fences, and buildings – play a critical role in
establishing the “feel” of a linear park.
Safety—The system must be designed to protect the safety of its
most vulnerable users. The speeds of motor vehicles should be
slowed when required to assure that bicyclists and pedestrians can
safely share the right-of-way.
87. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 14
Appendix: Policy Review Bands of Green
Project Priorities
The 2007 Bands of Green study specifically mentions the “Lake-to-Bay
Trail” as an important project, stating in part:
Another necessary connection is, of course, a pedestrian and bicycle
link between South Lake Union, the Seattle Center and the
waterfront. Although they are separated by just a few blocks, that
distance is a death valley for bicyclists and pedestrians. The new
Olympic Sculpture Park, the upcoming Mercer Street redevelopment,
and the possible reconnection of the grid system across Aurora
Avenue will provide the opportunity to create a safe and attractive
connection among these destinations. We suggest the City plan the
development of the Lake-to-Bay Trail in conjunction with the
construction of these projects.
2011 Update
The 2011 Update to Bands of Green conducted significant fieldwork
which included the following findings:
While significant improvements had been made in the trail network
from the original plan, gaps in the network were a detriment to the
functionality of the network as a whole.
There were many areas where a linear parks system and the Bicycle
Master Plan can complement each other, however, there is an
inherent tension between the two as a balance between
“connections” and “green” is established.
Some parks have easy connections to the trail network; however
there had not been a consistent application of trail improvements to
and from existing parks.
The original plan relied heavily on the boulevard concept and in
order to create an extensive network on existing infrastructure,
additional concepts for green networks may be required.
Lake to Bay Loop is given as an example of community
organizations and employers who have taken the initiative to develop
plans incorporating green connections in their neighborhood
planning.
2011 Recommendations
The 2011 Update lists recommendations related to specific greenways
and trail projects established in the original plan. The specific
recommendation for Lake to Bay states:
Description: The proposed Lake to Bay Loop will link Lake Union
Park, Seattle Center and the Olympic Sculpture Park. The concept
plan is complete, and funding for the Thomas Street overpass has
been secured.
Potential Solution: More detailed planning and additional funding is
needed to complete the concept.
Potential Park Foundation role: The Foundation has been and should
continue to be the catalyst for this project.
Key Findings
Both Bands of Green (2007) and the 2011 Update and
Recommendations are very supportive of Lake to Bay, both
conceptually as part of a citywide network of connections, as well
as the Lake to Bay project specifically.
Seattle Parks Foundation has provided funding and continues to
support Lake to Bay financially as well as through advocacy and
leadership.
The ability of the Seattle Parks Foundation to fund
implementation of the plan is limited and will require the securing
of additional funding sources.
88. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 15
Appendix: Policy Review South Lake Union Urban Design Framework
South Lake Union Urban Design Framework
Produced by: Seattle Department of Planning and Development (DPD)
Date: December 2010
Geography: South Lake Union Neighborhood
Status: Adopted, incorporated into zoning and incentive zoning ordinances
Overview
The South Lake Union Urban Design Framework is intended to set forth
clear actions from both the private and public sectors which will achieve
the vision set forth in the South Lake Union Neighborhood Plan. The plan
encompasses the South Lake Union neighborhood bounded by Denny
Way on the south, Broad Street and Aurora Avenue on the west, Galer
Street and Lake Union on the north and I-5 to the east.
Plan Priorities
The Plan reflects five priorities set forth in the South Lake Union
Neighborhood Plan:
Community Character–Encourage pedestrian activities with
pedestrian nodes and corridors, preserve landmarks and a diversity
of business.
Transportation–Reduce car dependency by improving alternate
mode infrastructure. Improve Mercer, Valley Street and connections
to surrounding neighborhoods.
Parks and Open Space–Improve existing open space such as Lake
Union Park, Cascade Playground, P-Patch/People’s Center and
Denny Park.
Housing–Create diverse housing options which include affordable
units and make the neighborhood attractive to families.
Sustainability–Encourage green building practices and green
stormwater infrastructure. Protect natural light and view corridors,
and increase vegetation within the neighborhood and along the
shoreline.
Guiding Principles
The guiding principles of the plan’s design concepts and
recommendations are intended to achieve the priorities listed above:
Set a clear vision for South Lake Union’s future development that
reflects the neighborhood’s physical setting and embodies the goals
of the Neighborhood Plan.
Integrate South Lake Union with adjacent neighborhoods with
special attention to the opportunity presented by improvements to
Aurora Avenue.
Create a network of great streets with safe connections for all
modes.
Develop a diverse system of open spaces and community services.
Revise zoning and design guidelines which activate streets, help
preserve neighborhood landmarks, enhance views, encourage
sustainable design and support affordable housing.
Create opportunities for families to live in the neighborhood,
particularly in clusters along 8
th
Avenue and around Cascade Park.
Guide new affordable housing investments through incentive zoning
and surplus property.
89. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 16
Appendix: Policy Review South Lake Union Urban Design Framework
Design Typology
The plan establishes several typologies for urban design related to
nodes, gateways, various street designs and land uses outlined below.
Gateways, Hearts and Edges
Gateways–transition locations that mark entry and departure points
into the neighborhood, including Broad and Thomas and Mercer and
Terry.
Hearts–centers of activity, with Regional Hearts at Lake Union Park
and Neighborhood Hearts at Westlake Commercial District, Denny
and Cascade Parks and a proposed future site on 8
th
between Valley
and Mercer Streets.
Edges–physical characteristics that define the neighborhood which
can either be an amenity, like Lake Union, or a challenge, like I-5.
Street Character
Boulevards/Great Streets – streets of grand scale or importance,
often commercial corridors with relatively high intensity for all modes
of transportation. The plan proposes several boulevards, including
Denny and Mercer (east-west) and 5
th
Avenue, Aurora, Dexter,
Westlake, Fairview and Eastlake (north-south).
Mixed Use Streets–typical downtown streets with a mix of
commercial, residential and retail uses which are secondary routes
through and to the neighborhood. Recommended mixed-use streets
include Republican and Harrison (east-west) and 9
th
Avenue (north-
south).
Festival Streets–flexible streets which are able to be closed down for
public use during special events. Recommended festival streets
include John from Dexter to 9
th
Avenue, Valley from Westlake to
Fairview and Terry throughout the neighborhood.
Neighborhood Streets–standard local access streets which are not
designed as significantly as green streets, but should have narrower
roadways, generous plantings and other amenities. Suggested
streets include Taylor, 6
th
Avenue, Boren, Minor and Yale.
Green Streets–low intensity streets that prioritize pedestrian and bike
mobility over autos and may have ecological functions related to
water management, habitat and tree canopy. Thomas and John are
recommended as Green Streets.
Woonerf Streets–may act as linear open spaces, with active or
agricultural uses and may be closed substantially or totally to
automobiles. The plan recommends that 8
th
from John to Broad be
prioritized as a Woonerf type street.
Source: South Lake Union Urban Design Framework
90. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 17
Appendix: Policy Review South Lake Union Urban Design Framework
Land Use
Primary Residential Areas–Focus on clustering residential
development to achieve a critical mass of units, discourage
commercial uses other than ground floor retail or services.
Residential Emphasis Areas–Mixed-use areas which encourage
residential development but with more flexibility than primary
residential areas.
Pedestrian-Oriented Retail & Services–Locally-servicing businesses
like restaurants, banks and other establishments.
Neighborhood Retail and Services–Would provide incentives for
small commercial establishments.
Open Space, Public Space, Views and Lakefront
Open Space Strategies–Use a variety of block configurations to
incorporate open space into new development. Open space can be
incorporated into mid-block connectors, green alleys, streets and
pocket parks.
Public Space Network–The public space network is a combination of
existing parks and greenspace as well as open space created by
conscientious siting of new development and infrastructure
improvements incorporating public space elements.
Views–Significant view corridors exist within the study area,
particularly Thomas and John (facing west to the Space Needle) and
Terry, Boren and Fairview (facing north, to Lake Union).
Lakefront–Lake Union is one of the neighborhood’s primary assets
and the plan seeks to maximize the amenity through street
improvements along Terry to create a “grand entrance” to Lake
Union Park. In addition, the plan calls for improved pedestrian
connections throughout the neighborhood, through activation of
Valley using cafes and retail stores, greater spacing between tower
buildings close to the waterfront and an expansion of the
Cheshiahud Loop.
Neighborhood Connections
The South Lake Union Design Framework prioritizes improving
connections to surrounding neighborhoods, and recommends the
following which are most likely to influence Lake to Bay:
More crossings at Aurora, including Thomas.
Improved pedestrian connections including the Cheshiahud Loop
and Lake to Bay and their connection point at Terry and Valley.
Extend the South Lake Union Streetcar north to Fremont and the U
District.
Key Findings
The plan acknowledges and supports both Seattle Center and
South Lake Union as regional destinations and prioritizes their
enhancement and connectivity to the neighborhood through street
and building design.
The South Lake Union Urban Design Framework focuses on a
“web” of great streets with different characters which is supportive
of a Lake to Bay zone with many types of connections.
Some of the street character recommendations are not consistent
with the Lake to Bay vision as most recently articulated. For
example, Thomas Street will need to be reclassified as a
Boulevard/Great Street to support the Lake to Bay vision.
There is no specific funding for projects set forth in the plan;
however there is a well-organized work plan which sets forth
specific actions needed in the public and private sector to enact
the plan’s priorities.
Source: South Lake Union Urban Design Framework
91. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 18
Appendix: Policy Review South Lake Union / Uptown Triangle Mobility Plan
South Lake Union / Uptown Triangle Mobility Plan
Produced by: Greater Seattle Chamber of Commerce
South Lake Union Community Council
South Lake Union Chamber of Commerce
Uptown Alliance
Date: 2011
Geography: South Lake Union
Status: Completed, not adopted
Overview
The South Lake Union Mobility Plan integrates and expands on
recommendations from many previous studies to bring together a
comprehensive and coherent approach to mobility throughout the South
Lake Union and Uptown neighborhoods. The plan addresses several
modes of transportation, including biking, walking, transit and freight
needs throughout the area.
Recommendations
The plan’s recommendations fall under seven key themes, described
below with key projects and recommendations highlighted.
Connect Communities
Creating connections between South Lake Union and Uptown across
Aurora Avenue is a top priority. Re-establish the east-west grid
across Aurora Avenue at John, Thomas and Harrison Streets.
Rename Aurora Avenue to 7
th
Avenue N.
Provide pedestrian and bicycle facilities on Thomas Street consistent
with the Green Street designation.
Enhance the pedestrian crossings of 5
th
Avenue N. at Thomas and
Harrison Streets.
Increase Transit Service
Provide east-west transit service connecting Capitol Hill and Uptown
on Harrison Street.
Identify bus layover locations in exchange for extending bus routes.
Concentrate transit service at a hub located at Aurora between
Harrison and Thomas Streets.
Increase nighttime and weekend service at Seattle Center and Lake
Union Park.
Improve pedestrian lighting and amenities at transit stops.
Support additional streetcar routes, prioritizing connections to First
Hill Streetcar and the Seattle Center.
Source: South Lake Union / Uptown Triangle Mobility Plan
92. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 19
Appendix: Policy Review South Lake Union / Uptown Triangle Mobility Plan
Serve Regional Access & Mobility
Complete the Mercer West project.
Convert Roy Street west of 5
th
Avenue N. to two-way operations with
bike lanes and traffic calming.
Improve pedestrian crossings at intersections along Mercer and Roy
Streets.
Discourage Republican Street as a high-speed through-route with
traffic calming strategies.
Encourage Walking
Signalize pedestrian crossings of Westlake Avenue N., particularly at
Thomas Street and John Street.
Implement a comprehensive pedestrian wayfinding program.
Improve pedestrian facilities along the Mercer Corridor, improving
crossings of Mercer Street near the Seattle Center.
Improve pedestrian-level lighting throughout the neighborhood.
Complete the Lake to Bay trail.
Enhance the pedestrian connection from Terry Avenue to Lake
Union Park. Prepare a Streetscape Concept Plan for Dexter Avenue
N. from Roy Street to Denny Way.
Support Biking
Enact planned bicycle improvements as part of Mercer Corridor
Project.
Provide bike infrastructure on Thomas Street.
Improve the Dexter Avenue N. bike lanes.
Create a bike sharing program for Uptown, South Lake Union and
Seattle Center.
Locate bike storage facilities near major transit stations.
Leverage Private Transportation Investments
Support private shuttles with passenger load zones along public
streets at appropriate locations.
Incentivize frontage improvements that are beyond City code
requirements.
Coordinate transportation demand management plans among
business and institutions.
Manage shared neighborhood parking.Source: South Lake Union / Uptown Triangle Mobility Plan
93. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 20
Appendix: Policy Review South Lake Union / Uptown Triangle Mobility Plan
Create Hubs for Mode Transfers
Create a transportation hub on Aurora Avenue between Harrison and
Thomas Streets.
Create a transportation hub on Valley Street near Lake Union
Streetcar.
Transportation hubs could include supportive surrounding land uses,
small-scale retail and services, placemaking design amenities,
convenient transit customer information, wayfinding, good pedestrian
connections, bike storage and bike sharing facilities.
Key Findings
The Southlake Union / Uptown Triangle Mobility Plan
recommendations are very supportive of the Lake to Bay
vision.
The plan is most supportive of the “web” of well-designed
streets with multimodal infrastructure and connecting
neighborhoods like Capitol Hill, South Lake Union and Uptown.
The plan’s recommended transit hubs at Thomas/Harrison (on
Aurora) and Valley/Terry would increase Lake to Bay
connection points to regional transit service.
Plan reiterates plan for Thomas Street as a green street which
is supportive of Lake to Bay as a whole but does not, it itself,
meet the ambition of a city-defining, destination boulevard.
Source: South Lake Union / Uptown Triangle Mobility Plan
94. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 21
Appendix: Policy Review South Lake Union Nieghborhood Design Guidelines (2014 Update)
South Lake Union Neighborhood Design Guidelines (2014 Update)
Produced by: Seattle Department of Planning and Development (DPD)
Date: 2005, revised in 2013
Geography: South Lake Union
Status: Adopted
Overview
Design guidelines set forth the qualities of architecture, urban design and
public space that guide the Design Review Board in their review of
proposed projects. In addition to citywide design guidelines, many
neighborhoods also have their own guidelines that are specific to the
needs and desires of their community. The South Lake Union Design
Guidelines set forth the design principles for the South Lake Union
Neighborhood, the area bounded by Aurora Avenue, Eastlake Avenue,
Denny Way, and the southern shoreline of Lake Union.
Character Areas
The plan defines four distinct character areas within the South Lake
Union neighborhood:
Waterfront–Is characterized by the neighborhood’s water dependent
activities and should build upon the industrial maritime nature of the
area.
Aurora Corridor–Is characterized by an eclectic variety of building
types and forms that house diverse business uses and serves as a
buffer to the SR 99 Corridor.
Westlake–Is characterized by its
commercial core consisting of mid-
sized, full block commercial and light
industrial buildings.
Cascade–Is characterized by a
mixture of commercial, residential
and social services with sustainable
infrastructure and improvement
projects that maintain a creative,
collaborative and eclectic nature.
Design Guidelines
The South Lake Union Design Guidelines supplement the citywide
Seattle Guidelines in many ways. Those most relevant to Lake to Bay
include the following:
Natural Systems and Site Features
New development is encouraged to take advantage of site
configuration to accomplish sustainability goals. Components can
include solar orientation, storm water management, sustainable
landscaping, and buildings designed for their entire life cycles.
Urban Pattern and Form
Encourage “outlooks and overlooks” for the public to view the lake
and cityscapes from public plazas or other open spaces and
designing form and façades to enhance views.
Reinforce community gateways through architectural elements,
streetscaping and/or signage. Potential gateway locations include
Westlake and Denny, Westlake and 9
th
, Dexter and Mercer, Fairview
and Valley, Fairview and Denny, and Fairview and Mercer.
Development at “heart” locations, which are community anchors and
centers of commercial and social activities, should enhance the
character through appropriate site planning and architecture and
should incorporate special street treatments such as pedestrian
lighting, public art, special paving, landscaping and additional public
open space. Areas identified as heart locations include South Lake
Union Park, Denny Park, Harrison Street, Terry Avenue N., and
Westlake Avenue N..
Address both the pedestrian and auto experience through building
placement, scale and details.
95. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 22
Appendix: Policy Review South Lake Union Nieghborhood Design Guidelines (2014 Update)
Architectural Context and Character
Articulate building façades in intervals that relate to the existing
structures or existing pattern of development in the vicinity.
Support the existing mix of building styles and re-use.
Preserve important buildings and landmarks where possible.
Expose historic signs and vintage advertising on buildings where
possible.
Respond to the working class, maritime, commercial and industrial
character of the Waterfront and Westlake areas, which could include
window detail patterns, open bay doors or sloped roofs.
Connectivity
Keep neighborhood connections open and discourage closed
campuses.
Reinforce pedestrian connections both within the neighborhood and
to adjacent neighborhoods.
Design for a network of safe and well-lit connections to encourage
human activity and link existing high activity areas.
Support the creation of a hierarchy of passive and active open space
within South Lake Union which may include pooling open space
requirements on-site to create larger open spaces.
New developments should provide features that enhance the public
realm through elements such as curb bulbs, pedestrian-oriented
street lighting and street furniture.
Walkability
Sidewalk-related spaces should appear safe, welcoming and open to
the general public.
Encourage provisions of spaces for street level uses that vary in
size, width and depth. Encourage the use of awnings and weather
protection along street fronts, streetscape amenities such as tree
grates, benches and lighting and configure retail space to that it can
spill out onto the sidewalk.
Enhance public safety through enhanced pedestrian and street
lighting, well-designed public spaces with clear sight lines and eyes
on the street as well as locations for police presence and patrols.
Street-Level Interaction
Create graceful transitions in streetscaping between public and
private uses.
Design façades to encourage activity to spill out from business onto
the sidewalk.
Reinforce retail concentrations with compatible space that
encourages pedestrian activity.
Create business and community activity clusters.
Design entrances to residential buildings to enhance the streetscape
through the use of small gardens, stoops and other elements which
create a transition between the public and private uses.
Project Uses and Activities
Parking below grade is preferred.
Open Space Concept
Encourage landscaping that meets LEED criteria.
Install indigenous trees and plants to improve aesthetics, capture
water and create habitat.
Retain existing, non-intrusive mature trees or replace with large
caliper trees.
Water features which include natural marsh-like installations are
encouraged.
Integrate artwork into publically accessible areas of a building and
landscaping that evokes a sense of place related to the previous
uses of the area, including themes such as laundries, auto row, floral
businesses, photography, maritime, etc.
Landscaping should be designed to take advantage of views to
waterfront and downtown Seattle.
Key Findings
Supports strong design and construction of public space,
landscaping and buildings to support a distinct neighborhood
character and strong pedestrian network.
Supports connectivity with Lake Union and related uses,
particularly with views and design elements.
Supports uses which activate the street, like outdoor dining, and
open retail.
Does not include specific projects and relies on the Design Review
process for voluntary inclusion of plan recommendations.
96. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 23
Appendix: Policy Review Terry Avenue North Street Design Guidelines
Terry Avenue North Street Design Guidelines
Produced by: Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT)
Date: March 2005
Geography: Terry Avenue N.
Status: Adopted
Overview
Like neighborhood design guidelines, street design guidelines
supplement citywide design standards and are intended to guide
development that is consistent with community vision through the design
review process during project permitting. They are voluntary and require
the project sponsor, whether a private developer or public entity to
commit to meeting the standards. The Terry Avenue North Street Design
Guidelines set for design principles for Terry Avenue N. from Denny Way
to Valley Street. The intent of the plan is to take advantage of Terry
Avenue North’s low vehicle use, location, width and history and to create
a pedestrian oriented street.
Design Intent
The intent of the design guidelines is four-fold:
The original community intent called for designing a European-style
“woonerf,” or curbless street. However, the regulatory and legal
environment in the US prohibits streets without definition between
pedestrian and vehicle areas. Therefore, the plan strives to create a
perception of continuity by utilizing similar paving materials
throughout vehicle and pedestrian areas.
Ensure that traffic volumes and speeds stay low over time so that
Terry Avenue N. can function as a pedestrian oriented street where
design and traffic devices are intended to reduce and slow traffic.
A third intent was to incorporate sustainability in lighting, draining
and landscape.
Finally, design was intended to enhance the character and assets of
Terry Avenue N., including its historic atmosphere, topography,
settings and connections to downtown and Lake Union.
Examples of Seattle Streets which Prioritize Pedestrians
Source: Terry Avenue North Street Design Guidelines
97. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 24
Appendix: Policy Review Terry Avenue North Street Design Guidelines
Plan Goals & Strategies
Street Design–Create a functional right of way that:
Allows all of the existing and potential land uses (including
nonconforming uses) and their associated access, loading and
parking.
Accommodates all modes of transportation including the streetcar.
Promotes low vehicle speeds and discourages through traffic.
Is safe for pedestrians, bicycles and vehicles.
Is accessible for all people, including those with disabilities.
Is durable and maintainable.
Incorporates utilities efficiently and in a way that will accommodate
future needs.
Allows for incremental development.
Provides a balance between right-of-way functions with
environmental priorities by minimizing stormwater runoff and
protecting water and air quality.
Placemaking–Create a great place that:
Retains a unique character based on its history, industrial uses,
topography and views.
Emphasizes pedestrians and amenities for pedestrians.
Makes natural systems both multifunctional and visible where
possible.
Uses sustainability in materials and systems.
Design Guidelines
The design guidelines set forth range from very specific to very flexible,
with the goal of using some elements to create continuity and a unified
sense of place while allowing variation throughout the corridor. Specific
guidelines include:
Right of Way Zones–Terry Avenue enjoys wide right of way zones and
should accommodate a vehicle zone (ranging from 23 to 31 feet), a
pedestrian zone (ranging from 9 to 14 feet) and the streetcar
infrastructure. Materials should reflect the historic character of the street,
retaining as much existing brick as possible, and provide continuity
between vehicle and pedestrian zones.
Accessibility–Terry Avenue N should be accessible to all people and
meet requirements in an attractive manner. Where necessary, pedestrian
separation should occur with landscaping, attractive warning strips, low
curbs and bollards.
98. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 25
Appendix: Policy Review Terry Avenue North Street Design Guidelines
Intersections–Intersections should receive special treatments which
indicate to cross street vehicles that Terry Avenue is a non-traditional
street. In addition, intersections should be designed to accommodate
large freight vehicle traffic which serves commercial and industrial uses
along the street.
Parking–Parking should be modest and encourage use by visitors and
patrons of local establishments. Long-term employee parking on Terry
should be discouraged. Parking should continue to be a combination of
parallel and angled parking.
Lighting–Lighting is an element which should provide a sense of visual
continuity along Terry Avenue. The lighting in front of the Exchange
Building III should be used as a model.
Landscaping–In keeping with the industrial history of the street,
plantings should maintain a different feel than other streets, focusing on
large-scale, distinctive trees rather than uniform plantings. In addition,
ground cover and hardscaping below trees should support both tree
vitality and pedestrian access and comfort.
Stormwater–A stormwater system focused on an 18 to 30 inch runnel
should be installed along Terry with additional planting strips which will
retain and filter stormwater runoff.
Utility Poles–Electric power should be supplied through upgraded,
uniform poles which are located at least 3 feet back from curbs and
bollard lines, and 10 feet from the vehicle right-of-way where there are
curbs without bollards, and curbless conditions without bollards.
Public Art–Art should be integrated into the design of the right-of-way in
selecting the surface treatment, landscape, street elements and
furnishings. It should reflect the industrial and historical character of
Terry Avenue and the surrounding neighborhood. Artistic elements
should be incorporated wherever possible, including grates, bike racks,
fencing, paving materials and other street elements.
Key Findings
Supports strong design and construction of public space,
landscaping and buildings to support a distinct neighborhood
character and strong pedestrian network.
Prioritizing pedestrians on Terry Avenue through design,
particularly through minimizing separation and lowering curbs is a
different approach to street design than most of the plans
reviewed, lending Terry a unique character and differentiation
supportive of Lake to Bay.
Terry Avenue has right-of-way wider than most streets which
provides more opportunity for “street rooms” and other innovative
public spaces that are not necessarily linear in character.
Like all street design guidelines, the recommendations are
voluntary and depend on participation by public entities or private
developers for implementation.
99. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 26
Appendix: Policy Review South Lake Union Street Concept Plans
South Lake Union Street Concept Plans
Produced by: City of Seattle, Seattle Department of Transportation
Date: April 2013
Geography: South Lake Union Neighborhood
Status: Adopted; implementation of the plan will occur over time
through direct capital investment by the City or other
public entities.
Overview
The South Lake Union Street Concept Plans focus on the portion of the
neighborhood west of Westlake Avenue, creating a guide for a
streetscape that will be a key amenity of the neighborhood. The area
covered by the plan is between 9
th
Avenue and Dexter Avenue, from
Denny Way on the south to Mercer Street on the north. It includes
Denny Park and the UW Medicine Campus. While the plan does not
include specific projects, it sets forth the major opportunities for creating
needed public amenities in this neighborhood.
Plan Mission
The South Lake Union Street Concept Plans provide a vision and
guidance to the improvements to the right-of-way. The goal is that
incremental improvements by both private and public actors will result in
an excellent and functional public realm that is context sensitive. The
Street Concept Plans has been adopted as an appendix to Seattle’s
Right of Way Improvement Manual.
Streetscape Concepts
The plan details street concepts for each of the seven streets in the
study area, as detailed below:
Source: South Lake Union Street Concept Plans
100. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 27
Appendix: Policy Review South Lake Union Street Concept Plans
8
th
Avenue North
Considered to be the “heart of the district” and is designed as a
“woonerf” or shared use street with an emphasis on pedestrians and
bicycles. The street is planned as a linear park connecting Denny Park
and the open spaces at the UW Medicine facility. In addition, the street
should add elements of “street rooms” which provide residents in
surrounding buildings a place to gather and socialize. The street rooms
would primarily be on alternating sides of 8
th
Avenue except between
Thomas and Harrison Streets which would have a central street room.
John Street
John Street is envisioned as a Festival Street which can be closed to
auto traffic for special events and public gatherings. Because it will be
reconnected as part of the Alaska Way Viaduct project, it can serve as
an important pedestrian connection. Existing parking should be retained
and the green feel along Denny Park should be extended.
Thomas Street
Thomas Street is envisioned as a Green Street with significant traffic
calming measures and ecological features which provide substantial tree
canopy, habitat and water management. The proposed configuration
includes:
1-travel lane each way
5’ bike lanes each way
No parking and table intersection at 8th Ave
Pedestrian lights, 12-16’ high
Autumn Blaze Maples preferred for consistency with other plans
Encourage undergrounding utilities
Source: South Lake Union Street Concept Plans
101. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 28
Appendix: Policy Review South Lake Union Street Concept Plans
Harrison Street
Harrison Street is envisioned as a mixed-use concept which will connect
directly to SR 99 and therefore will likely have higher traffic volumes than
John and Thomas Streets and should accommodate expected traffic and
increased transit uses. Proposed configurations include:
1 travel lane each way at 11’ curbside areas are sized as travel
lanes, but may be used as parking if not needed for levels of
traffic/transit
11’ sidewalk with planting area - keep existing trees
where healthy and add new Cimmaron Ash trees where possible
Encourage building setbacks near transit stops
Encourage undergrounding of utilities
Republican Street
Republic Street will not be reconnected through Aurora Avenue, but will
need to accommodate traffic exiting Aurora to the east. The street is
designated as mixed-use with the following components:
11’ travel lanes; one each direction
7’ parallel parking both sides
Bicycles allowed in street; consider painted sharrow signage
Keep north curb line set by UW Med development.
Extend landscape character from UW Medicine on north side of
street
9
th
Avenue
9
th
Avenue serves many purposes; it is identified as a major bicycle route
in the Seattle Bicycle Plan and is designated as a Principal Arterial and a
Minor Transit Street. In order to accommodate these uses, the following
components are recommended:
1-lane each way
Bike lanes in both directions
Options for parking vs. landscape
Dexter Avenue
Because of its width, Dexter is envisioned as a broader boulevard street
concept.
2-lanes each way
Parallel parking both sides
Separated cycle track
Sidewalk on both sides, some street trees
Utility lines and cobra-head lighting
Key Findings
Supports strong design and construction of public space,
landscaping and buildings to support a distinct neighborhood
character and strong pedestrian network.
Has a well-defined street hierarchy which recommends well-
designed streets accommodating a wide variety of users as well
as a variety of street character.
Like all street design guidelines, the recommendations are
voluntary and depend on participation by public entities or private
developers for implementation.
102. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 29
Appendix: Policy Review Thomas Green Street Concept Plan
Thomas Green Street Concept Plan
Produced by: Seattle Department of Planning and Development (DPD) and Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT)
Date: Summer, 2013
Geography: Thomas Street from Western Avenue to I-5
Status: Adopted
Overview
The Thomas Green Street Concept Plan is one of several street concept
plans developed to guide streetscape improvements through public
projects and private redevelopment. It is intended to provide conceptual
design guidance and is incorporated into the City Right of Way
Improvements Manual.
Concept Areas
The Thomas Green Street Concept Plan divides Thomas Street into four
distinct Concept Areas: Cascade, South Lake Union, The Triangle and
Uptown. Though Thomas Street travels through Seattle Center, the plan
does not provide specific recommends but instead recommends that the
street’s design through should be consistent with the Seattle Center
Century 21 Master Plan. A detailed overview of the recommendations for
the South Lake Union, The Triangle and Uptown concept areas are
below.
Source: Thomas Green Street Concept Plan
103. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 30
Appendix: Policy Review Thomas Green Street Concept Plan
South Lake Union Concept Area
The South Lake Union Concept Area includes Thomas Street from
Dexter Avenue to Fairview Avenue. The Design Principles include:
Green Promenade–Would begin at 5
th
Ave. N intersection adjacent
to Seattle Center and extend to Fairview Avenue. It is envisioned as
a wide sidewalk (30’ wide on the north side of the street) with
abundant plantings, large trees, sidewalk cafes and other amenities.
Consistency with Terry Ave N.–Streetscape improvements should be
consistent with design elements included in the completed Terry
Avenue N., particularly pedestrian scale lighting and textured brick or
stone pavers in the landscaping zone.
Coordinate with Zoning Incentives–Allow new developments to
participate in the zoning incentive program by constructing sections
of the Thomas Street green promenade.
Targeted Green Stormwater Infrastructure–GSI should be included,
potentially at the northeast corner at Boren Street, the northwest
corner of 8
th
Avenue N. and the northwest corner of 9
th
Avenue N.
Specimen Trees as Distinctive Elements–One distinctive tree each
half block should be interspersed within the row of more uniform tree
plantings.
Denny Park North Residential Enclave–As part of a planned
residential enclave extending from Denny Park north along 8
th
Avenue N., streetscape improvements should incorporate a shared
street concept at the 8
th
Avenue N. intersection.
Lake to Bay–The green promenade should be the primary route and
location for the Lake to Bay Loop for this stretch. Wayfinding and
signage as identification for the Lake to Bay Loop should be carefully
integrated within the sidewalk zone, particularly at the Dexter Avenue
and Terry Avenue N. intersections.
8
th
Avenue North Intersection Focus Area Concept
Source: Thomas Green Street Concept Plan
104. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 31
Appendix: Policy Review Thomas Green Street Concept Plan
The Triangle Concept Area
The Triangle Concept Area includes Thomas Street from 5
th
Avenue N.
to Dexter Avenue. The Design Principles include:
Support Services Corridor–This area of Thomas Street should be
focused on including setbacks for sidewalk cafes and street-facing
retail with businesses that would support the Seattle Center and
nearby employers.
Blend the Seattle Center Edge – Enhance physical connections with
the Seattle Center by blending the edges. This is consistent with the
recent improvements at Counterbalance Park and Broad Street
Green and should incorporate similar elements such as creative
lighting and seat walls. The pedestrian crossing of 5
th
Avenue should
be dramatically improved for safety and ease of pedestrian access to
the center with a wide crosswalk.
Capitalize on Broad Street Remnants–As part of the removal of the
portion of Broad Street north of 5
th
Avenue, remnants of Broad Street
could be reclaimed as a green space that has a relationships and
management link with potential redevelopment of private properties
in the area.
Explore Improved Substation Screening–Enhance substation
screening to contribute to the green street corridor and enhance the
approach to Seattle Center, which could include color and light
consistent with the elements used to blend the Seattle Center edge.
Green Promenade–The green promenade would begin at the 5
th
Avenue North intersection and extend east to Fairview Avenue. In
this portion of Thomas Street, the green promenade is envisioned to
be 20’ wide with abundant plantings and large distractive trees on
the north side of Thomas Street.
Dedicated Bicycle Lanes Near the SR99 Portal–Striped dedicated
bike lands are recommended in The Triangle Concept Area due to
the high traffic volumes through the area.
Specimen Trees as Distinctive Elements–As in other concept areas,
large, distinctive trees should be included in the promenade with one
in each half-block and interspersed within the row of more uniform
tree plantings.
5
th
Avenue North Intersection Focus Area Concept
Source: Thomas Green Street Concept Plan
105. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 32
Appendix: Policy Review Thomas Green Street Concept Plan
The Uptown Concept Area
The Uptown Concept Area includes Thomas Street from 1
st
Avenue
North to Elliott Avenue West. The Design Principles include:
A Balanced Neighborhood Green Street–In this portion of Thomas
Street, there should be evenly allocated sidewalk space, parking and
landscaping on both sides of the roadway.
Complement ‘Uptown Park’ Neighborhood Character–Improvements
should enhance the green, park like feel of the neighborhood and
should include a broad planting strip between curb and sidewalk in
the range of 8’ wide, a band of landscaping adjacent to buildings and
abundantly landscaped planting beds.
Pedestrian Overpass Landing–Improve the landing of the pedestrian
overpass at Thomas Street and 3
rd
Avenue West.
Seattle Center Access and Loading–Street access needed for
Seattle Center loading and unloading functions should be prioritized.
Specimen Trees as Distinctive Elements–As in other concept areas,
large, distinctive trees should be included in the promenade with one
in each half-block and interspersed within the row of more uniform
tree plantings.
Key Findings:
The plan is supportive of many elements of the Lake to Bay, and
specifically mentions incorporating Lake to Bay signage and
elements as design principles for several concept areas.
In addition, the plan recommends several Lake to Bay elements,
including the blending of the Seattle Center edges, incorporating
green space into the Broad Street remnants, shielding the Seattle
Light property, and general streetscape improvements throughout
Thomas Street.
The plan does not have specific project funding and relies on
private development or specific city-led projects to incorporate
improvements.
While the plan incorporates many “good practice” elements for
street design and landscaping, it does not reach the ambition of
Lake to Bay as an innovative, destination street.
Thomas Street at Pedestrian Overpass Focus Area Concept
Source: Thomas Green Street Concept Plan
106. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 33
Appendix: Policy Review Seattle Center Century 21 Master Plan
Seattle Center Century 21 Master Plan
Produced by: Century 21 Committee Members
Date: 2008
Geography: Seattle Center
Status: Adopted August, 2008
Overview
The Century 21 Master Plan is an ambitious vision for the Seattle Center
which envisions the campus to “one’s first place to think of when
planning what to do or where to go…a Seattle Center that is vibrant with
activity, flexible to accommodate change, open and welcoming, and
sustainable in construction and design.” The plan sets forth the following
goals:
Enhance Seattle Center’s position as the Nation’s Best Gathering
Place
Dramatically increase open space
Connect Seattle Center’s dynamic facilities into a synergistic whole
Provide capacity for existing and future arts, cultural and recreational
programs, to be nurtured, grown and developed
Create program and design that captivates and attracts private
funding partners
Building on the history of Seattle Center while creating the flexible
framework to provide for the needs of the future
Integrate environmental sustainability in design, construction and
operations to reduce energy demands and serve as a model for
sustainable development
Enrich and connect to the fabric of adjacent neighborhoods through
welcoming design, programming and operations
Increase accessibility to the center for the grounds for all users
Encourage greater mass transit use and easier non-motorized
connections
Improve pedestrian safety
Provide the programs and destinations to attract a larger and
increasingly diverse number of visitors
Source: Seattle Center Century 21 Master Plan
107. Lake to Bay Inventory and Visioning Project Page 34
Appendix: Policy Review Seattle Center Century 21 Master Plan
Planning and Design Principles
The Plan sets forth 38 Planning and Design Principles, those of which
are most relevant to Lake to Bay include:
Seattle Center Mission
We are the nation’s best gathering place. Supported by the people of
Seattle, we are home to the finest cultural and educational organizations,
sports teams, festivals, community programs and entertainment facilities.
We exist to delight and inspire the human spirit in each person and bring
us together as a rich and varied community.
The Mission is Sound and the Future is Bright
The future of Seattle Center should be as sparkling and dynamic as
its past.
Diversity is the Center’s hallmark strength. Seattle Center should
continue to bring together young and old, rich and poor, arts patrons
and sports fans, tourists and Northwest residents, festival revelers
and conference attendees.
Drawn to the Center
The campus should be designed to draw people into the center of
the grounds to discover attractions, and be exposed to new
programs, people and activities.
Future development should maximize the green space at the “Center
of the Center” as a place of refuge from the surrounding city.
Open Spaces
Open spaces and gardens contribute to Seattle Center’s unique
identity. They should feature diversity both in size and character,
providing for the needs of major festivals as well as quiet enjoyment
of green space.
Open spaces should feature a mix of active and passive
programmatic uses and be available to all.
The amount of open space should be increased wherever possible.
Open spaces should build on existing program uses while providing
flexibility for future program needs.
Leader in Sustainable Design and Operations
All planning and design work should promote environmental
sustainability.
Seattle Center should be used as a compelling and highly visible
model to showcase emerging green technology in its buildings and
landscape and should help demonstrate ways to reduce the City’s
carbon footprint.
Arrivals and Visual Connections
Visual access into and through the campus should draw people to
the center of the grounds.
Pathways and pedestrian connections into and through the campus
should convey a sense of discovery and be clearly legible.
Sightlines to key attractions, such as the International Fountain,
Space Needle and Center House should be respected as they give
Seattle Center its unique sense of place and assist in campus
navigation.
Campus edges should open to the community and entries should be
inviting and festive and clearly convey that one has arrived at Seattle
Center.
A Mix of Activities and Amenities for Diverse Populations
Seattle Center should strive to enliven the campus throughout the
hours of the day and the days of the year, balancing out the peaks
and valleys of programs and activities.
Development should invigorate and update the campus to appeal to
the next generation of users, yet changes should honor the campus’
historic character.
Pedestrians First
Pedestrian friendly planning should unify the campus, enhancing the
comfort and safety of people on foot.
Pedestrian drop-off points should be located strategically around the
perimeter of the campus and vehicular access should not segment
the site.
Lighting, signage, a coordinated system of direction and information
graphics, and street furniture should reinforce the primary pedestrian
corridors and facilitate pedestrian access. Green technology and
materials should be emphasized.