Main Street Enhancement

News & project updates


September 30, 2016


The Council recently identified 12 top priority goals for 2017-18, and this project is one of them.

The Main Street Enhancement project has been planned for some time, but has taken on a greater urgency after the Main Street Fire. The City is proposing funding it so work can begin in 2017.

Project description


This project is a key component of the Downtown Revitalization Plan.  It addresses the historic section of downtown, with the goal of keeping it a viable, attractive location to work, live, visit and shop. 

Phases


The project consists of two phases; the first improvement phase is between Bothell Way NE and 102nd Avenue NE, while the second improvement phase is between 102nd Avenue NE and 104th Avenue NE/Kaysner Way.

The conceptual streetscape design has been completed and addresses the entire corridor between Bothell Way NE and 104th Avenue NE/Kaysner Way.

Main Street Enhancement Phase 1 improvements, along with the planned extension of Main street, will integrate the historic district with the planned overall development of public spaces in the downtown area such as the Northshore School District site and the Bothell Way NE multiway boulevard.  Main Street’s one hundred year legacy makes it the heart and soul of downtown Bothell and this project would ensure that the street maintains this status while preparing existing Main Street businesses to more successfully compete as new commercial development occurs on revitalized lands.

Reconstruct streetscape


The project will reconstruct the entire streetscape from building front to building front - approximately 60 feet in total width and would address the following key elements and features:
  • Gathering areas/public spaces
  • Wide pedestrian-friendly sidewalks
  • Additional parking
  • Maintaining the street character
  • Promoting business visibility
  • High-visibility crosswalks
  • Traffic calming measures
  • Flexible use zones 
Replacement of Downtown amenities and urban elements, such as street lighting, landscaping, benches, trash receptacles, way finding signage, and bicycle racks will brighten and bolster the economic health of this unique and historic commerce district. 

Replacing utilities


This being the oldest section of downtown, the project will replace public utilities (stormwater conveyance, sanitary sewer, and water) due to age and deterioration. 
  

Status

 
The conceptual phase of the project began in early 2009 with an iterative public outreach process that was aimed at determining the direction for developing a preferred conceptual streetscape.  The design (about 60%) is currently underway.  Further design and construction will take place as funding becomes available.