Sidewalks

Sidewalks are the building blocks of an effective pedestrian network. There are currently more than 2,000 miles of sidewalks in Seattle, yet many areas in the city do not have sidewalks at all.

SDOT is committed to increasing the number of sidewalks in the city. More money is now available to fund sidewalk construction as part of the Bridging the Gap levy for transportation maintenance and improvements. In addition to local funds, SDOT also looks for state or federal grants to build sidewalks.

Please refer below for additional information about sidewalk construction in Seattle.

How do I request a sidewalk?
SDOT has a Sidewalk Development Program for the construction of new sidewalks throughout Seattle. If you want a sidewalk on a particular street, e-mail the Pedestrian and Bicycle Program at WalkAndBike@Seattle.gov or call (206) 684-7583. Your request will be added to our list and will be evaluated with other requests for construction in the upcoming year’s project schedule.

How will my sidewalk request be evaluated?
Please click here to see SDOT's draft sidewalk prioritization policy.

How much do sidewalks cost?
Sidewalks can cost anywhere from $40,000 to $300,000 per block depending on the specific circumstance such as the construction material (i.e. asphalt or concrete), drainage concerns and the inclusion of planting areas and/or curbs.

How long does a typical sidewalk project take?
Construction of sidewalks typically takes 2 weeks, though some larger projects can take longer. Issues such as weather and material availability also factor in to completion time. SDOT works hard to minimize the impact of sidewalk construction on adjacent property owners.

How can I find out what projects are happening?
Please click here for a map indicating SDOT’s 2007 construction projects, many of which are sidewalk or walkway projects. To view only Pedestrian Improvement Projects, scroll down on the right-side tool bar and select "Pedestrian Improvements".