In 2023, SDOT will begin construction on 15th Ave W/NW from W Emerson St (in Interbay) to NW 57th St (in Ballard). This includes paving and work on the Ballard Bridge deck. This will restore good street conditions on this important corridor that connects Ballard, Interbay, Queen Anne, and Magnolia.
As part of Seattle’s freight route, this will also be a major investment in the freight network and serve large trucks, the maritime industrial business, port facilities, and key business needs on this side of town.
Construction details
Project construction is currently scheduled to begin as soon as summer 2023 and be completed as soon as 2024. This project is funded by the Levy to Move Seattle.
Timeline graphic showing the project’s status. Construction is scheduled to begin as soon as summer 2023. Graphic: SDOT
We will complete asphalt paving along 15th Ave W/NW, from W Emerson St to NW 57th St, asphalt paving on the Ballard Bridge, and select concrete panel replacement on the ramps to and from the Ballard Bridge to NW Leary Way (see project map below).
We are currently in the early planning phase for this paving project. The planning phase will include collecting traffic data, reviewing plans, and gathering community input. After planning is complete, we move into the design phase, then begin construction. As noted above, we plan to begin construction as soon as summer 2023, and currently expect to complete construction as soon as 2024.
We are still developing the details of this construction work. This may include where work starts first, specific work hours (including night and weekend work when necessary), potential travel detours, and road closure times. We are committed to continuing to share more information about the project as it becomes available.
How to stay informed, share your feedback, and ask questions
We will be actively working to schedule this project work for days and times with lighter traffic, but as with all major construction, some disruptions and lane closures will be unavoidable. To make sure we understand your preferences for the schedule and access needs, we’re asking residents and businesses how we can lessen the impact of construction on your commute and travel needs.
If you have thoughts or feedback, you can send us an email at 15thAveW_NWpaving@Seattle.gov. You can also ask questions to us via email, and we will follow up with more information.
We are committed to continually sharing more updates about the project as more details become available. Please continue to visit the project webpage for more information and to sign-up on our project listserv where you’ll receive updates about construction and potential impacts.
Map showing the extent of the planned repaving and bridge deck work. Graphic: SDOT
How we’re planning to minimize travel impacts during 2023-24 construction
We recognize that the Ballard Bridge is a vital north-south connection in northwest Seattle. This work will affect people traveling on the bridge. Our goal is to have at least one lane in each direction open for vehicles during construction.
We’ll schedule construction work so it has the least impact on you and your neighbors. We also plan to keep at least one of the two sidewalks open on the Ballard Bridge for people walking, biking, and rolling using a power wheelchair or other mobility device during most of construction, unless short, limited closures are needed for traveler safety.
We will be posting signs around the project area, using our email list to send traffic advisories ahead of time with detour maps, and work with media to get the word out so travelers can plan ahead.
The Ballard Bridge was originally built in 1917, and requires periodic maintenance and preservation to continue operating safely and effectively. Photo: SDOT.
