Water main work wraps up on RapidRide J Line project

ByAl Sanders
Crews installing new water main pipe on Eastlake Ave E. Large pipe being laid into trench by three workers

Cross posted from the SDOT Blog

Building infrastructure is vital in the creation of the RapidRide system that will stretch from downtown Seattle to the University District.

The RapidRide J line is a collaborative effort between Metro and the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT). But before roads could be built, it was time to upgrade the century-old system of pipes that run under the roads.

SDOT and Seattle Public Utilities have completed the installation of over 9,000 feet of upgraded water main. The equivalent of 25 football fields of pipes is now underground, and SDOT is ready to start the roadwork that will pave the way for frequent, reliable bus service when the new RapidRide J Line launches in 2027.

The challenge beneath the surface

Crews demolish existing street pavement on Eastlake Ave E
Crews demolish existing street pavement on Eastlake Ave E. Photo: SDOT

Upgrading underground utilities is one of the most complex parts of any large-scale transit project. Before SDOT could even think about building new bus lanes or stations, they worked with our partners at Seattle Public Utilities to address the aging infrastructure hidden beneath our city streets. The 100-year-old water main had served its purpose, and it was time for a modern upgrade to ensure reliable service for the community for years to come.

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Map

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What the work involved

  • Extensive Excavation: Crews carefully dug trenches in the U District and Eastlake, navigating a complex web of existing utilities like gas lines, electrical conduits, and communication cables.
  • Precise Installation: SDOT replaced approximately 9,000 feet of underground water main and 27 new fire hydrants. They also relocated 11 water meters and transferred 174 services to nearby businesses and homes. The new water main is designed to withstand earthquakes and provide a more robust and dependable water supply.
  • Community Coordination: This work happened in the heart of bustling neighborhoods. SDOT worked closely with residents and businesses to manage traffic impacts, maintain access, keep businesses open during the day, and minimize disruption as much as possible.

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What’s next? Paving the way for RapidRide J!

 

 

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With new storm drainage and the new water main now fully in service, SDOT’s focus shifts from underground to above ground. Completing this utility work unlocks the next major phase of the project: street construction. This is where you’ll begin to see our neighborhoods transform to support the future RapidRide J Line.

This next stage involves rebuilding the street to prepare it for the new bus service and bike lanes, and to improve travel safety and accessibility for everyone.

Key activities will include:

  • Paving: SDOT will reconstruct and pave large sections of the street to create a smoother, quieter, and more durable surface.
  • Sidewalk and curb upgrades: You’ll see new sidewalks and curbs built to improve pedestrian safety and ensure ADA accessibility.
  • Installing new protected bike lanes: This work will connect more sections of Seattle’s growing bike network by adding new bike lanes and protected by concrete buffers in the U District and along Eastlake Ave E.
  • Intersection improvements: SDOT will reconfigure intersections to enhance traffic flow and create safer crossings for people walking, biking and scooting.
  • Coordination with private development: Eastlake is growing and the project team continues to work with private developers to, whenever possible, provide access to install their underground connections while SDOT has the street dug up, reducing further impacts to the community.

This street construction lays the essential groundwork for the project’s final, most visible elements. It prepares the communities of Belltown, South Lake Union, Eastlake, and the U District for the arrival of fast and frequent transit.

Look for more bus infrastructure coming soon

Riders boarding a RapidRide H Line bus in Burien
Riders boarding a RapidRide H Line bus in Burien

As SDOT moves through the street construction phase and steps into the new year ahead, the physical elements of the RapidRide J Line will start to take shape. This is when the project features will begin to feel more tangible for residents and future transit riders.

Keep an eye out for the emergence of new bus infrastructure, such as:

  • Bus Stations: You will see new, well-lit stations being constructed, complete with real-time arrival information and weather protection.
  • Bus-Only Lanes: Dedicated red bus lanes will be painted, giving buses a clear path to travel without getting stuck in traffic.
  • Bus Islands: Raised concrete islands will be built to make boarding safer and more efficient for all passengers.

Completing the water main work is more than just an infrastructure update; it’s a critical step that brings Metro and SDOT closer to delivering a world-class transit experience. Together we are excited to build on this momentum and continue making progress toward the RapidRide J Line’s start of service in 2027. Thank you for being part of this journey with us.

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