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ADA Curb Ramps Upgrade Project
Work expected to start in spring 2025
Photo of an existing curb ramp which was installed more than 30 years ago and will be replaced in this project. This curb ramp and sidewalk is located at the intersection of SW Roxbury Street and 17th Avenue SW.
Overview
King County Road Services is replacing 27 outdated sidewalk curb ramps at 10 intersections, and adding one new crosswalk, along Metro’s new RapidRide H –Line route in White Center. Many curb ramps along this bus corridor are over 30 years old and need to be brought to modern standards. The improvements make it easier and safer for people walking or in wheelchairs to use the sidewalk when walking to or from a RapidRide bus stop.
The RapidRide H Line operates between the Burien Transit Center and Downtown Seattle. Cities of Burien and Seattle recently improved curb ramps located along their sections of this corridor and now unincorporated King County is updating our section of the route to improve safety and mobility for all.
Curb ramps benefit the whole community and are used by pedestrians, those using strollers, the elderly, in addition to people who are physically disabled.
Status update
This project was planned for spring/summer 2024 but was delayed due to delays in obtaining permits and right of way access. The project is now expected to start in spring 2025.
Project location map
The project replaces outdated sidewalk curb ramps along 16th Avenue SW and 15th Avenue SW between SW 110th Street and SW Roxbury Street. We also will replace the sidewalk curb ramps along the southside of SW Roxbury Street between SW 16th Avenue and SW 26th Avenue. View larger image (259KB)
Benefits of modern sidewalk curb ramps
Curb ramps in 10 intersections will be removed and replaced with modern ramps during this project. When public spaces are improved and made more accessible, the whole community benefits. Curb ramps make it easier for people who are disabled. Ramps also make it easier for people pushing strollers, those who need to use a handcart, or people carrying heavy bags.
Our new curb ramps will have detectable warning surfaces so that sight-impaired pedestrians know where to safely exit the sidewalk.
This existing curb ramp at SW Roxbury St and 18th Ave SW is over 30 years old and is not at modern standards. It will be replaced as part of this project. View larger image (1MB)
An example of a modern curb ramp at SW Roxbury St and 15th Ave SW which includes a bright yellow detectable surface that alerts those who are visually impaired or blind to take caution when they are entering the street. The bright color and raised bumps also help disabled people find the other side of the street more easily. View larger image (534KB)
What to expect during construction
- Each curb ramp may require the sidewalk corner to be closed for up to a week. When the corner is closed, a signed detour will direct pedestrians across the street. The County will only work on one or two corners in an intersection at a time. Construction may require overnight or multiple day closures of the corner.
- There will be temporary pedestrian detours when the sidewalks are closed for construction. The pedestrian detours will shift throughout the project.
- Sidewalk corners of intersections may be closed even when crews are not working.
- Workers may need to use parking spaces that are adjacent to active construction. Look for round-the- clock no parking signs when these spaces are occupied.
- Adjacent lane closures on the road are possible during construction. Flaggers will direct traffic when crews are working.
- Project updates will be made on this website and on MyCommute website.
- Contact us with any questions or if you need or want information translated into a different language and/or format.
Construction hours and noise
- Crews will work Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- People living or working nearby may hear noise from jackhammers, trucks, generators, and other construction equipment.
Frequently asked questions
We will do our best to keep community members informed about the project. Project updates and active construction location information will be shared in the following ways:
- Status updates to this website and our MyCommute website.
- Flyers to nearby businesses, recreational facilities, and neighbors.
- Signs alerting pedestrians to upcoming temporary sidewalk closures.
- Posts on X (Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.
Project photos
Three curb ramps at SW 106th Street and 15th Avenue SW will be replaced and an additional crosswalk will be installed. The current curb ramps are over 30 years old and they will be improved with modern new curb ramps with tactile detectable surface which alerts those who are visually impaired or blind to take caution when the sidewalk ends. Modern curb ramps also provide traction for those using wheelchairs. View larger image (911KB)