TIGER Helps Build a Neighborhood

Mercer Corridor serving a new Seattle neighborhood (Mak photo)

True to the intent, stimulous funding in the way of a TIGER grant (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) awarded recently, will provide the final dollars needed to construct the Mercer Corridor Project within the South Lake Union neighborhood.  More than just a “curb and gutter” road construction, the Mercer Corridor Project will support creation of a grided high density mix of residential, retail and office uses north of (and adjacent to downtown Seattle).  Future home to Amazon and Gates Foundation
, this neighborhood will be served with expansive sidewalks, bike lanes, and landscaped roadways to go with the existing streetcar.  The jewel in this new neighborhood is access to the South Lake Union Waterfront Park.  Access to this park via a de-emphasized narrowed Valley Street will also be enhanced as part of the Mercer Corridor Project.  Green growth is built into the project with low impact design, rain gardens, and use of recycled materials. Creation of jobs will begin immediately as construction can start this spring.