The Bus lane on Barton Street SW is torn up for repaving. Construction is expected to continue through to fall.
Photo by Patrick Robinson
Construction has officially begun on the SW Barton St Layover Repaving project, with work expected to continue through Fall 2026. This initiative, funded by the Move Seattle Levy and King County Metro, aims to resolve persistent road damage near the Westwood Village shopping center.
For years, travelers in the area have encountered deep cracks and bumpy concrete caused by the ground sinking beneath the street. This issue is exacerbated by the weight of heavy buses that park there at the end of their routes. While previous maintenance crews used asphalt patches to address the damage, these fixes were temporary and often led to noisier road conditions. To provide a permanent solution, crews are now replacing the ground with lighter materials and repaving the street with stronger concrete specifically designed to handle heavy bus traffic.
Travel and Transit Impacts
The project brings several significant changes to local traffic and transit patterns:
- Bus Detours: Detours for Route 21 and the RapidRide C-Line began on March 28, 2026. These buses are currently bypassing sections of SW Barton St and utilizing temporary stops along SW Trenton St.
- Traffic Delays: Drivers should expect slower traffic, as only the north half of SW Barton St remains open during construction.
- Pedestrian Restrictions: The sidewalk on the south side of SW Barton St is closed. While pedestrians cannot enter Roxhill Park from this sidewalk, the park remains accessible via the entrance on SW Roxbury.
Once completed, the project will provide smoother and quieter rides for motorists, bus riders, and cyclists, while making it safer for the community to access Westwood Village.
Stay Informed
Residents and commuters can stay updated on the project's progress through the following resources:
