Curb Ramp & Sidewalk Improvement Projects

Updated February 27, 2025

What's Happening Now?

The Boyer/Delmar Access Improvements project in the Portage Bay area is nearing completion. 

In early March 2025, we will begin sidewalk improvements and curb ramp installations in the First Hill area, at the intersection of Jefferson St and Boren Ave. 

Stay in the loop about our ongoing curb ramp projects and other exciting city improvements by signing up for our emails. 

Our Commitment to Safer Urban Spaces 

Here at SDOT, our work goes beyond merely fixing roads and bridges. We are committed to maintaining sidewalks, implementing infrastructure that keeps people safe, and ensuring a comfortable journey for all our pedestrians. One of our key services includes installing curb ramps. And when it comes to sidewalks, if they're uneven, we're there to re-grade them, providing a smooth and even surface for all forms of travel. 

What are Curb Ramps? 

Curb Ramp with yellow panel and bumpy texture

A brand new curb ramp, with its signature yellow panel and nubby texture 

A newly installed curb ramp, marked by a vibrant yellow panel and distinctive nubby texture, eases the transition from sidewalk to street for pedestrians. Their yellow color and bumpy texture act as visual and tactile signals for pedestrians, and particularly aid those with limited vision or mobility. 

Parking is also not allowed within 20 feet of intersections, especially where curb ramps are present. This is done to increase drivers’ visibility in areas where pedestrians could cross. By restricting cars from parking in near intersections, vehicle-pedestrian collisions can be reduced. You can learn more about Seattle parking regulations in our comprehensive leaflet

Why are Curb Ramps and Sidewalks so important to maintain? 

Ensuring safe mobility for all is our driving philosophy. That's why we allocate budget for maintaining sidewalks and accommodating curb ramps across the city. Our commitment to safety, especially for people with disabilities, is rooted in stringent compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act standards. To dive deeper into these standards, explore more at our ADA Curb Ramps program website

If you need to request an ADA curb ramp, you can visit our Request an ADA Curb Ramp website.  

Current Projects 

Jefferson and Boren Improvements (First Hill) 

A project map of the intersection at Jefferson and Boren Avenue, with orange rectangles showing where curb ramps will be installed

A project map of the intersection at Jefferson and Boren Avenue

This project is located in First Hill, roughly two blocks away from the Harborview Medical Center. We will be building new curb ramps and improving sidewalks on three of the four corners of the Boren/Jefferson intersection. In early March, we intend to being demolition and construction of the sidewalk and curb ramps.  

  • Work is expected to last 2-3 weeks (weather depending).
  • Working hours will be 9 am - 3 pm
  • Although not anticipated, weekend and night work may occur
  • Restricted Parking
  • Lane and sidewalk closures
  • Noise, dust, and some vibrations 

Boyer and Delmar Improvements (Portage Bay) 

Boyer and Delmar Overview Map

Our first project will take place in Portage Bay, just east of the Eastlake Neighborhood. A section of the 520 Trail includes the Boyer Steps. We will do spot repairs on sections of the area's sidewalks and install curb ramps at these street intersections: 

  • E. Edgar St. and 11th Ave. E. 
  • E. Edgar St. and Boyer Ave. E. 
  • Boyer Ave. E. near E. Roanoke St. 

Finally, we will install what we call a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB). An RRFB is a post that has a button and flashing lights that let drivers know they need to stop and wait for people to cross a street. To use the beacon, walk up to the pole, push the button that makes the lights flash, look both ways, and when it is safe, cross. This RRFB will be at the intersection of Boyer Ave. E and E. Roanoke St. 

Rapid Flashing beacon at a crosswalk, with large pole and yellow signage

A rectangular rapid flashing beacon, along with a button on a post

Materials

Transportation

Adiam Emery, Interim Director
Address: 700 5th Ave, Suite 3800, Seattle, WA, 98104
Mailing Address: PO Box 34996, Seattle, WA, 98124-4996
Phone: (206) 684-7623
684-Road@seattle.gov

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The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) is on a mission to deliver a transportation system that provides safe and affordable access to places and opportunities for everyone as we work to achieve our vision of Seattle as a thriving, equitable community powered by dependable transportation.