Support Us Button Widget

Seattle City Council revs its engines on a potential I-5 lid project

The hope is that the new land bridges over the interstate would re-connect neighborhoods.

I-5_Ship_Canal_Bridge_(4833566368).jpeg

Advocates for the lid project hope that creating the land bridge could operate as new park or building space.

Photo by Atomic Taco via Wikimedia Commons

Seattle City Council has put a key into the ignition and approved a resolution for a new development project that would build a “lid” along I-5.

Lids are bridge-type structures that cross major roads to allow cities to turn unused space into something more interesting like parks or buildings.

While building such a lid has been talked about in public forums for a few years, this City Council move officially establishes support for the project and makes it easier for establish studies and plans.

Two specific stretches of road were mentioned in the resolution passed Tuesday night: the space over downtown between S. Dearborn Street + Thomas Street and one in the U District between NE 45th Street + NE 50th Street.

Next steps will still fall to government departments like the Seattle Department of Transportation and the city’s Office of Planning and Development. Keep a look out for more details in the coming months.

More from SEAtoday
Over the next 10 days, we’re launching a reader-driven campaign to sustain what we do best.
Spoiler alert: Traffic isn’t great. We dove into the Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s congestion data so you don’t have to.
Including gifts for significant others, retirees, holiday parties, young people, and gifts that ship fast.
Grab your biggest buckets — these Seattle neighborhoods offer the best treats, no tricks needed.
Here’s the deal — the thrift and vintage shopping scene in Seattle has great finds. These are your must-see stops for a perfect haul.
There’s never been a better time to support locally owned-pharmacies.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Reach your local community with our help.
Consider these our Hollywood signs.
We’re highlighting the best kid-friendly activities that Seattle has to offer — complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.