The project improvements will meet community objectives identified in the University Community Urban Center Neighborhood Plan . The improvements will also support the businesses along University Way by encouraging and promoting pedestrian activity and creating a more pleasant and attractive street. During the fall and summer of 2000, the design team prepared a preliminary layout and developed concept alternatives. The team expects to complete the engineered designs by the summer of 2001. When construction will begin depends on when the necessary funding can be obtained - perhaps in 2003 or 2004, if not sooner.
Bus stop bulbs are a key element of the project.
The bulbs will allow buses to take on and drop off passengers without leaving the travel lane of the street. This system will eliminate the delay that buses now experience when they must wait to re-enter the mainstream of traffic. The plan is also to widen sidewalks throughout The Ave to provide more room for pedestrians, upgrade street lighting and intersection treatments, and add various urban design and art enhancements to the street based on community direction and available funds. The City of Seattle expects to begin construction in 2003 or 2004, and to complete the work in approximately one year. The street will be reconstructed from property line to property line.