Projects

The Active Streets Strategy 

When ISI looked at all the construction projects - nearly 20 of them - about to hit Pioneer Square, we sprang to action. 

These projects, which range from the Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Project to the First Hill Streetcar - if well coordinated - could result in active public spaces, an integrated transit system and a fine-grained network of connected streets, parks and alleys. Pioneer Square could be positioned as of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods and a powerful economic driver of Seattle's downtown. If they aren’t well coordinated?   Well…we can’t run the risk. See a map of them here.

ISI's Active Streets Strategy compiles these insights with hundreds of hours of in-the-field observations and data into a list of recommendations prioritized by those who live and work in the neighborhood. We teamed up with the Alliance for Pioneer Square to identify funding and to submit grants to complete the work. So far the strategy is working. More than half of the recommended improvements are funded or pending funding.

There is still work ahead. Accessibility, waterfront connections and infrastructure upgrades are all big tasks. With the help of the Pioneer Square Active Streets Strategy, we  have a guide for thinking carefully about how to get full value of these investments to make a vibrant place for everyone.

Why alleys? Alleys offer the opportunity for Pioneer Square to boost healthy activity on its streets, feed its vibrant arts culture, and draw people to local businesses. The scale of the buildings, narrow alley passageways and architecture make Pioneer Square's alleys visually alluring and a place of discovery. A study conducted by Copenhagen-based Gehl Architects, identified Seattle alleys as having the potential for great pedestrian spaces.

Alley Network Project: Since the first Nord Alley party in 2008, alley efforts have sprouted up all over Pioneer Square! ISI mobilizes neighbors, businesses and community groups to transform Pioneer Square's alleys into one of its great assets. By leveraging funds from government, foundations, and local businesses and bringing together public space experts, community organizers, marketing professionals and students - Pioneer Square is working together to create great public spaces. If you're eager to activate your alley, we encourage you to meet your neighbors and explore ideas. More about the Alley Network Project here! 

Alley Corridor Project: In 2013, ISI kicked off the Alley Corridor Project with funding awarded by the City of Seattle Department of Neighborhoods. An opportunity to restore alley surfaces to new standards is occurring as alleys are retrofitted with new utility infrastructure. The outcome of this project - a design that is cost effective and approved through SDOT's Street Improvement Permit (SIP) process and Pioneer Square Preservation Board, will clear hurdles for resurfacing any of the neighborhood alleys, positioning Pioneer Square to use alleys as active public spaces full of historic character. 

ISI requests Statements of Qualifications from design consultants for the Pioneer Square Alley Corridor Project. See here for the full RFQ and submission requirements. DEADLINE: May 17, 2013. Contact Liz Stenning for more information, liz@ISISeattle.org.