Seattle City Council Approves Westlake Transit Hub Principles, Funding Still Unset
Updated (2 articles)
Resolution Sets Guiding Principles Without Funding A City Council committee approved a resolution that establishes guiding principles for a coordinated regional transportation hub adjacent to Westlake Park, but it does not allocate construction funds, approve designs, or set a timeline; the framework was created by the Westlake Civic Committee and will be incorporated into ongoing and future projects [1].
Plan Aims to Merge Rail, Monorail, and Park Improvements The resolution seeks to align future light‑rail expansion, possible monorail upgrades, and planned park enhancements into a single hub that prioritizes safety, urban compatibility, clear navigation, and a cleaner, well‑lit public space linking trains, buses, bicycles and pedestrians [1].
Construction Disrupts Businesses and Pedestrians Officials describe Westlake as Seattle’s “front door” because of its proximity to Pike Place Market, the Convention Center and downtown retail, yet sections of Westlake Park remain fenced off, dampening foot traffic; food‑truck operator Eduardo Salgado says the ongoing construction deters customers, while rider Sandy Wilkinson experienced wayfinding confusion locating the Convention Center [1].
Council to Vote Full Approval in March Amid Community Concerns Longtime downtown resident Richard Hjelte worries the hub could eliminate existing public gathering areas, noting the resolution includes no renderings or schedule; the proposal now moves to the full City Council for discussion and a vote in March [1].
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Timeline
2025 – Polaris Parkway congestion worsens as new shops, restaurants and offices expand the corridor, with a Christmas‑season rush hour to IKEA filling every lane and side streets clogged, illustrating the traffic pressure driving further development. [1]
Jan 19, 2026 – Westerville City Council unanimously approves the Westsar East project, clearing the way for construction of 220,000 sq ft of retail and office space, more than 1,000 parking spots, and tenants such as Aldi at the Polaris Parkway‑Worthington Road intersection. [1]
Feb 21, 2026 – A Seattle City Council committee adopts a resolution that sets guiding principles for a coordinated regional transportation hub at Westlake Park, aiming to unify light‑rail, monorail, bus, bike and pedestrian links while providing no funding, designs or timeline. [2]
Feb 21, 2026 – Food‑truck operator Eduardo Salgado warns that ongoing construction at Westlake Center deters customers, hoping the future hub will bring more patrons once completed. [2]
Feb 21, 2026 – Transit rider Sandy Wilkinson reports difficulty locating the Convention Center due to confusing wayfinding, highlighting the hub plan’s emphasis on improved signage and navigation. [2]
Feb 21, 2026 – Longtime downtown resident Richard Hjelte fears the hub could eliminate existing public gathering spaces, noting the resolution lacks renderings or a schedule; the full council will consider the proposal in March. [2]
Mar 2026 (planned) – Seattle City Council scheduled to vote on the Westlake Transit Hub vision, deciding whether to advance design work, funding and implementation. [2]