DPD continues to work with the U District community on several related urban design efforts.
Building off of the extensive public input we received while writing the U District Urban Design Framework, we’ve started an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to study several possible zoning scenarios. A public scoping process in September and October helped us develop the alternatives and scope of the study. The EIS will address topics including aesthetics, traffic, open space, infrastructure, housing, and historic resources. We plan to release a draft for public review in late winter.
In December, the U District Urban Design Working Group started developing streetscape concept plans for the three designated green streets in the neighborhood: Brooklyn Ave NE, NE 43rd St., and NE 42nd St. DPD will present draft alternative designs this spring to get public feedback. Green streets typically include widened sidewalks, generous landscaping, and other features like special lighting and street furniture. The U District green streets will serve as part of the network of public spaces in the neighborhood as the city continues to grow and change.
DPD is also coordinating with SDOT and the U District Partnership on concept plans for alley activation parallel to the Ave., as well as pedestrian/bike safety improvements on 12th Ave NE.
