13th Ave NW/Holman Rd NW Pedestrian Bridge Seismic Retrofit

Updated May, 2025

What's Happening Now?

Retrofits to help the 13th Ave NW/Holman Rd NW Pedestrian Bridge better withstand earthquakes is complete!

Three photos showing recent upgrades to the 13th Ave NW/Holman Rd NW Pedestrian Bridge. Top: View of the stair landing column wrapped in a special material (CFRP) to make it stronger during earthquakes, with gravel underneath. Bottom left: Stairs with added support underneath. Bottom right: Close-up of new metal rods attached to a support column.Photo caption: Photos show recent upgrades to the 13th Ave NW/Holman Rd NW Pedestrian Bridge. Top: Stair landing column wrapped in carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) as part of seismic retrofit work. Bottom left: Additional column wrapped in CFRP beneath the bridge stairs. Bottom right: Close-up of added steel tension rods attached to a landing column during previous retrofit efforts. 

Here’s what we’ve done to make the bridge stronger and less vulnerable in the event of an earthquake:

  • Foundation Work: We made the base of the bridge (called concrete footings) stronger to help support the structure.
  • Column Upgrades: We wrapped the bridge’s columns with a strong material called Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP).
    • CFRP is a thin, lightweight wrap that helps columns better withstand earthquakes and makes them less likely to crack or break.
    • Extra CFRP was added where columns meet other parts of the bridge. This helps the structure bend and move safely if there is an earthquake.
  • Girder Repairs: We repaired damaged main beams (called girders) to make sure the bridge can safely support weight.
  • Landing and Walkway Improvements: Parts underneath the bridge landings (soffits) were made stronger with the same CFRP material.
  • Sidewalks and curb ramps: We rebuilt sidewalks and curb ramps near the bridge, so they are easier and safer to use. The updates also make the area accessible for everyone, including people using wheelchairs.

To support growth of new landscaping, a one-year plant establishment period began on February 17, 2025.

About the Project 

Seattle is located in an earthquake-prone region, and earthquakes can seriously impact our bridges. To address this risk, the City of Seattle created the Bridge Seismic Program to evaluate which bridges are vulnerable and reinforce them to better withstand seismic events.    

As part of the Levy to Move Seattle, 16 bridges were selected for seismic reinforcements, including the 13th Ave NW/Holman Rd NW Pedestrian Bridge. This bridge is an older bridge built in 1964, prior to modernizing the seismic design code. This bridge provides a more direct connection across Holman Rd NW for the North Beach/Blue Ridge and Crown Hill neighborhoods.  

Project Area

Map of the 13th Ave NW/Holman NW Bridge

Project schedule

30% Design Complete
60% Design Complete
90% Design Complete
Final Design Complete
Construction Began July 2024
Project Completion Spring 2025

Funding 

The project is funded through the Levy to Move Seattle. Approved by voters in 2015, the 9-year, $930 million Levy to Move Seattle provides funding to improve safety for all travelers, maintain our streets and bridges, and invest in reliable, affordable travel options for a growing city.  

Materials 

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Transportation

Adiam Emery, Interim Director
Address: 700 5th Ave, Suite 3800, Seattle, WA, 98104
Mailing Address: PO Box 34996, Seattle, WA, 98124-4996
Phone: (206) 684-7623
684-Road@seattle.gov

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The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) is on a mission to deliver a transportation system that provides safe and affordable access to places and opportunities for everyone as we work to achieve our vision of Seattle as a thriving, equitable community powered by dependable transportation.