Transit Center raised intersections win national award

Published April 26 2024

The Bellevue Transportation Department has won a 2024 Project of the Year Award from the American Public Works Association for a project that makes things safer for people walking and rolling in downtown, including to and from the Bellevue Transit Center.

The project, which will soon also benefit users of Sound Transit's Link 2 line, raised the intersections of Northeast Sixth Street and 108th and 110th avenues to the same level as surrounding sidewalks.

The award, in the transportation projects less than $5 million category, highlights excellence in design and construction, and recognizes the cooperative efforts between public agencies, contractors and consultants. The project also won the Project of the Year Award in the same category from the APWA Washington Chapter earlier this month.

Raised intersections provide a seamless connection from the sidewalk, which is especially helpful for those using mobility devices. They also improve the visibility of people walking and help reinforce safe speeds for people driving. The improved intersections, completed in late 2023, also support the Grand Connection, a signature, pedestrian-focused corridor through the heart of downtown.

"We're honored to be recognized by APWA for this project and the hard work of our talented staff and contractor," said Transportation Director Andrew Singelakis. "It reflects our commitment to innovation and inclusivity, providing safe and seamless connections for people walking downtown."

Bellevue staff accepted the state award at a ceremony on April 11 in Vancouver; the national award will be presented at APWA's conference in September. To learn more about this project, visit BellevueWA.gov/transit-center-intersections.