Jessica Murphy, a project manager for Seattle Department of Transportation, announced at the Morgan Junction Association meeting last night, April 15, that construction will begin mid-May for the repavement and restriping of Fauntleroy Way Southwest between Southwest Holly Street and Southwest Alaska Street.

The expected completion date is October 2009.

Murphy said that the failing asphalt and concrete panels will be completely dug out and that some drainage improvements will take place to better filter rainwater. Curb ramps are also being built now and should be completed before repaving begins.

But the greatest change that residents and drivers will notice is the restriping, or rechannelization of Fauntleroy Way. The roadway will be converted from two travel lanes in each direction to one lane in each direction, a center two-way left turn lane, a bicycle lane northbound and shared lane pavement markings, for motor vehicles and bicycles, traveling southbound. This is often called a "road diet."

There will also be marked crosswalks added at Southwest Brandon Street and 40th Avenue Southwest. Most on-street parking will remain with a few spaces replaced by bus zones.

The restriping has been designed to make Fauntleroy Way safer for both pedestrians and bicyclists by reducing vehicle speeds and collisions while still supporting the road’s capacity, accoridng to the city, which cites national studies that have revealed that single-lanes in each direction calm traffic and create a safer environment for all road users.

This project is being funded by the "Bridging the Gap" levy approved by voters in 2006.

What to expect during construction:

Lane closures
Pedestrian detours
Parking restrictions
Moderate construction noise and dust
Work between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Regular notices with more location specific information during construction