Mayor Bruce Harrell has recommended the Seattle Transportation Plan to the City Council for adoption. The plan, a 20-year vision for the future of Seattle’s streets, sidewalks, and public spaces, has been informed by extensive input from thousands of residents, workers, and visitors of Seattle. It establishes a clear vision, goals, key moves, and recommendations for a transportation system that caters to the city’s needs both now and in the future.
The Seattle Transportation Plan will play a crucial role in guiding future transportation funding, as well as shaping projects and programs that enhance the city’s public spaces and facilitate movement throughout the city. In the fall of 2023, the city sought public feedback on the draft plan through various channels, including citywide online engagement, in-person events, and targeted outreach efforts conducted by the Department of Neighborhood’s Community Liaisons. These outreach efforts specifically targeted communities such as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and Other People of Color), low-income residents, immigrants, refugees, aging adults, women, individuals experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity, and people living with disabilities.
Once adopted, the Seattle Transportation Plan will become the formal vision for the future of transportation in the city. To ensure its successful implementation, an Implementation Plan will be created by the end of 2025, with subsequent updates every four years. This iterative process will allow for adjustments to be made based on changing financial conditions, community priorities, and emerging issues.
The current Levy to Move Seattle, which provides essential transportation services and funding, is set to expire at the end of 2024. Mayor Harrell and the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) are actively working on a levy renewal proposal. This proposal is expected to be presented to the public and the City Council in the spring, ensuring the continuation of vital transportation services and funding for the city.
The Seattle Transportation Plan and its accompanying Implementation Plan represent a significant step towards creating a transportation system that meets the evolving needs of Seattle’s residents and visitors. The emphasis on public engagement and outreach to diverse communities underscores the city’s commitment to inclusivity and equity in transportation planning.
As the plan moves forward, residents are encouraged to stay informed and engaged with the process. Updates on the levy renewal proposal and other developments related to the Seattle Transportation Plan will be shared in the coming months. The city is dedicated to creating a transportation system that enhances mobility, sustainability, and quality of life for all Seattleites.
Mayor Bruce Harrell stated, “The Seattle Transportation Plan is one important piece of our city’s long-term vision for the future. Together with the One Seattle Comprehensive Plan Update, we are looking at every neighborhood across our city to shape the next 20 years of Seattle’s streets and public spaces. We are creating the Seattle we want to see, where families, workers, neighbors, and visitors can safely get where they need to go, no matter how they travel. From safer routes to schools, parks, transit, and community gathering spaces to proactively maintaining our streets, sidewalks, and bridges, we are laying out a comprehensive vision for a transportation system that serves everyone.”
