Aurora Drainage and Sewer Improvements

Project description

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is planning drainage and sewer system improvements along Aurora Avenue North from North 80th to North 145th Streets. These improvements will add capacity to the drainage and sewer systems, reduce risks of floods and sewer backups, and provide infrastructure that is ready for growth and climate change.  SPU will make these improvements in partnership with Seattle Department of Transportation’s Aurora Ave Project.

Location

The drainage and sewer improvements will stretch along Aurora Ave N from N 80th St to N 145th St, in the Aurora-Licton Springs Urban Village and Bitter Lake neighborhoods.  Aurora Ave N, one of Seattle’s busiest streets, is important to commuters, transit, and freight transport. Aurora Ave N is lined with many small businesses, including restaurants, services, motels, and car dealerships. Historic disinvestment along parts of Aurora Ave N has contributed to economic decline, safety concerns, and aging infrastructure. Aurora Ave N has high rates of serious injuries and fatal crashes, with pedestrians being especially impacted.

Aurora Avenue North is in the Densmore Basin area, which covers 1,600 acres in North Seattle.  The Densmore Basin area drains down to Licton Springs Creek, then to Lake Union and a smaller amount to Green Lake. Aurora Avenue North runs through the middle of the drainage path. Click for a larger map image (opens in new tab.)

Community benefits

The Aurora Avenue North improvements will contribute to healthier communities in Aurora-Licton Springs Urban Village, Bitter Lake, and the greater Seattle area.

• Reduce the risk of flooding and sewer backups in streets, homes, and businesses
• Increase drainage and sewer capacity to handle heavier rainfall caused by climate change
• Protect Licton Springs Creek and Licton Springs Park.  Aurora Ave North improvements will redirect most stormwater away from the creek and park, which should help restore creek health.
• Protect the water quality of Green Lake and Lake Union. The improvements will include water quality treatment to protect these lakes.
• Fill in the gaps in the drainage system, to support future growth and make it easier to extend drainage improvements to side streets

Licton Springs Creek runs from Licton Springs Park to the north end of Green Lake. Urban runoff causes pollution and erosion in the creek (Photo: Seattle Parks and Recreation).

What's happening now?

SPU is completing the first phase of planning, identifying priority improvements, estimating costs, and looking at possible impacts.

SPU, in partnership with Seattle Department of Transportation, will start the second phase of the project towards the end of 2025.  We will work together to decide best improvement options and develop early designs, while coordinating design and construction timelines.

Community involvement

The SPU project team is connecting with community-based organizations, small businesses, and community members to inform them about the upcoming drainage and sewer improvements. We are planning engagement events to start informing and educating the community about the planned improvements.  We want to equitably engage community throughout all phases of the project.  

Request a meeting! If you are part of a community group or a community member in the Aurora Ave N area, we welcome the opportunity to meet and further discuss this project. Email Jenna.Park@seattle.gov to request a meeting.

Community involvement information for Department of Transportation Aurora Ave Project.

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