Third Avenue Vision Moves Forward

Third Avenue is one of the busiest transit corridors in the country and serves as a front door to downtown Seattle. It faces many challenges, however, from public safety concerns and bus congestion to limited sidewalk space, inadequate retail options and a general lack of stewardship.

That’s why, over the past year, DSA led a group of nearly 70 business and property owners, residents, government staff, and other stakeholders to develop a long-term vision for the future of Third Avenue. DSA hired consultant ZGF Architects, Fehr & Peers, and ELM to provide expertise on solutions for urban design, transportation, retail, parks and management.

During the process, DSA studied how peer cities around the nation adapted their bus streets into efficient and welcoming transit facilities. Cities like Denver, CO; Vancouver, B.C.; and Minneapolis, MN; launched civic planning efforts to revitalize and balance the needs of transit, pedestrians and retailers.

Minneapolis opened the renovated Nicollet Mall in 2018, and Denver is embarking on the next phase of its 16th Street Mall. Last spring, DSA staff and members traveled to Portland where they learned how our neighbors to the south created a new management entity to maintain their city’s transit mall after construction.

Our work will culminate with the release of the Third Avenue Vision, which proposes four future transportation options converting Third Avenue to a two- or three-lane transitway optimizing bus volumes and maximizing ridership. The result expands sidewalk space for pedestrians and allows businesses to offer sidewalk cafes, window shopping and pleasant dining experiences. The plan also lays out strategies to improve retail, parks and public spaces.

With a unified vision, we can ensure individual investments support the common goal of a high-quality pedestrian and transit experience.

Read more about it in The Urbanist or for more information, please email info@downtownseattle.org.