Willow Creek Fish Passage Restoration Project

Updated: May 1, 2023

What's Happening Now?

We are currently in the design phase of this project having gathered information on existing utilities and soil conditions to determine the feasibility of the proposed changes. We have sent the 4(f) mailer to properties surrounding the construction area. The project’s SEPA DNS and Environmental Checklist are available for public comment through May 15, 2023. Construction is expected to start as soon as early spring 2024.

Project Background

In summer of 2021, The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) completed construction of the Northgate Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge over I-5 in the Northgate neighborhood of North Seattle. The Bridge runs over and through the North Watercourse, which is a tributary to the South Branch of Thornton Creek. The Bridge project has impacted the North Watercourse by decreasing habitat and retaining the barrier to fish passage.

Upon completion of this project, we agreed to mitigate for these impacts off-site at Willow Creek, which is located at NE 100th Street near Lake City Way. The proposed changes consist of re-routing the creek and removing two culverts, one of which is currently a partial blockage to fish passage.

Project Maps

A graphic map showing the city right of way on NE 100th street as it extends over Willow Creek

Pictured: Existing Conditions at NE 100th St.

A graphic map showing the location of the proposed drainage pipe at NE 100th street which will re-route the creek from the right of way.

Pictured: The changes proposed to Willow Creek and the west end of NE 100th St.

Project Library

SEPA DNS (April 2023)
SEPA Environmental Checklist (April 2023)
Notice of Section 4(f) de minimis Finding (April 2023)
4(f) Mailer (April 2023)
Construction Notice (November 2021)