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Work on the new Arboretum Trail is making a big step as construction work closes the south end of Arboretum Drive to build part of the new biking and walking connection.
This closure — today through October 15 — means people who depend on Arboretum Drive to get through the park will either need to make a wide detour to the Lake Washington Loop bike route or ride with often heavy traffic on Lake Washington Boulevard.
But the result will be well worth the inconvenience. Scheduled to open in December 2017, the new Arboretum Trail will open more of the park to visitors and create a biking and walking option separate from traffic on Lake Washington Boulevard.
Coupled with Arboretum Drive, the new trail will also create a complete loop through the park, likely to be even more popular for jogging, strolling and cruising.
The $7.8 million trail is funded as part of the mitigation plan for the SR 520 bridge replacement project.
Details from Seattle Parks:
Community encouraged to visit Looptrail.seattle.gov and sign up for construction updates
On Monday Sept., 26, 2016, Ohno Construction will begin to tear up and replace the south end of Arboretum Drive E. This Arboretum access point will be closed through October 15, 2016 to build a key connection for the new loop trail. Bicycle traffic will be detoured to Lake Washington Boulevard E and pedestrians detoured to cross at Wilcox Bridge at Lynn Street to access the Arboretum. This short notice is a response to a scheduling opportunity with a subcontractor that will allow the contractor to complete a key section of the trail and help get sections open to the public ahead of schedule.
The Arboretum remains open during construction and visitors are asked to follow detour routes. Seattle Parks and Recreation and the contractor appreciate your patience and cooperation as we construct these improvements at the Arboretum.
The Arboretum Loop Trail is a 1.2-mile trail that will connect to Arboretum Drive, creating a 2.5-mile path through the Arboretum and provide improved access to the flagship public garden. Safety for visitors, contractors, volunteers and staff is the priority during construction of the Arboretum Loop Trail. To receive construction updates please visit LoopTrail.seattle.gov.
In June 2013, City Council approved $7.8 million from WSDOT to fund implementation of the Arboretum loop. This project, as outlined in the Arboretum’s Master Plan, is key in mitigation effects of the upcoming replacement of the SR 520 Bridge. It fulfills the Master Plan’s three primary goals: conservation, recreation and education. It will also improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists visiting the Arboretum. Additionally, the project restores portions of Arboretum Creek and nearby wetlands.
For more information about the project visit http://www.seattle.gov/parks/about-us/current-projects/washington-park-arboretum-loop-trail For additional questions please contact project manager Garrett Farrell at [email protected] or 233-7921.
