This summer the Seattle Department of Transportation will spend about $35,000 to improve the crosswalk on Leary Ave NW between 20th Ave NW and NW Market.
Changes include ladder style crosswalk markings in the street, overhead flood lighting in the crosswalk zone, a vehicle stop line for southbound traffic, new signage, the removal of one tree on the west side of the street, new light poles and new parking restrictions on the east and west side of the street for a distance of 35 feet in advance of the crosswalk. The work will take about seven days and will completed at some point before Labor Day.
A second phase, which is on the calendar for early next year, includes adding “curb bulbs” on either end of the crosswalk. The improvements to this crosswalk was requested by residents of Ballard Landmark and Canal Station, which are developments on either side of the crosswalk.
SDOT is looking at other pedestrian issues along Leary Ave NW. Changes may include modifications to the traffic patterns, new crosswalks, lighting, and signs at the intersection of 20 Ave NW and NW Leary. As of right now there is no funding for the additional improvements. SDOT is working with folks within the Ballard community to move the project forward.