Rainier Ave S Connection

May 21, 2026

What This Project Will Do

This project will help create a calmer and more comfortable street for people who live, work and travel in Rainier Beach.

The project is in early planning and builds on improvements planned for S Henderson St later this year.

We are working with community members, businesses and people who travel along and across Rainier Ave S. We will study possible improvements and gather feedback through in-person outreach and community events. We look forward to engaging with community in-person and at events to gather feedback.

We encourage you to sign up for email updates to get the latest project information.   

Project Area Map

The project area includes:

• Rainier Ave S from S Henderson St to Ithaca Pl S
• Seward Park Ave S from S Henderson St to Rainier Ave S

Why This Project Matters

Rainier Ave S and Seward Park Ave S are important streets for nearby neighborhoods, schools, businesses and community organizations. They are key routes for transit and freight, and they are also used by people walking, biking and rolling.

Rainier Ave S connects people to homes, schools, community organizations, local businesses and services such as the Rainier Valley Food Bank and Rainier Beach Library. King County Metro routes 7, 106 and 107 travel along this part of Rainier Ave S.

Rainier Ave S is a Vision Zero priority. Many children and families use these streets every day to get to and from schools, the community center, and the library. Between 2021 and 2025, there were 136 crashes on this part of the corridor. These crashes included six serious injuries and two crashes involving people walking, rolling or biking.

The posted speed limit is 25 MPH, but 79 percent of drivers travel faster than 35 MPH on average. There’s been a history of serious crashes, speeding and crossings that feel uncomfortable, especially for people with disabilities.

This project will redesign the street to reduce speeding. Average daily traffic on Rainier Ave S is about 15,000 vehicles.

Funding

This project is funded by the Seattle Transportation Levy.

Schedule

Planning (completed): We began planning for this project in 2025.

Design (in progress): We'll begin project development and design.

Construction: We will work with the community to understand their needs. We will share information about the construction schedule and activities. Construction is expected in 2027 - 2028.

• New marked crossing and signal will be installed at Rainier Ave S and 54th Ave S by end of 2026