Improvements to increase pedestrian safety and protect landscaping on 28th Avenue Northwest between Northwest 56th Street and Northwest 57th Street meant to begin this month have been pushed back to the second or third week of August due to Seattle Department of Transportation crews taking longer than scheduled to complete other projects.

The Department of Transportation will install a curb between 56th Street and 57th Street on both sides of the street and on the one-half block just south of 56th Street on the eastside of the street.

The curb will provide a better walking environment by creating a buffer between the sidewalk and the street and will provide a protected area for landscaping by preventing cars from parking on the planting strip area, according to a Seattle Department of Transportation press release.

This fall, trees will be planted on both sides of the street. When completed, the width of the street will be the standard for residential streets with parking on both sides, similar to the blocks to the north. The current on-street parallel parking will remain in place following construction.

Seattle Department of Transportation paving crews expect to begin construction July 23 or July 26, depending on completion of work at another location, according to the press release.

On-street parking will be restricted in the work area. Crews estimate it will take three to four weeks to complete the project, according to the press release.

This improvement was requested by local residents and is funded by the Neighborhood Projects Fund, a city-administered program that works with communities to prioritize and build neighborhood projects.