A market spokesperson told KING 5 that Saturday was the first day that new cement planters will be placed at six major intersections near the market.
SEATTLE — Visitors to Pike Place Market saw for the first time Saturday New concrete planters and removable barriers Designed to limit vehicle access, officials expect this to be one of the busiest summer months in the market’s history.
The facilities debuted during the market’s annual Flower Festival, which officials called the first major test of an updated street management plan before full summer operations begin over Memorial Day weekend.
Spokespersons for the market and the Seattle Department of Transportation told KING 5 that Saturday was the first day that new cement planters will be placed along six major intersections near the market, along with movable guardrails that will be used during full street closures.
A spokesman said: “The cement barriers will remain in place throughout the summer.”
Under the new system, Pike Place Market will operate with three different traffic modes based on crowd levels and time of day. Streets will be open to vehicles in the early morning, evening and night.
Officials said the updated measures are intended to improve pedestrian safety and crowd flow as Seattle prepares for a surge in visitors during this summer’s FIFA Men’s World Cup. Seattle is scheduled to host six World Cup games between June 15 and July 6.
In addition to the barriers, visitors will see updated signage, street attendants to help direct traffic and new public seating.
The Market Authority and the University of Washington Urban Freight Lab also launched a public service opinion poll A trial aimed at understanding the impact of a limited vehicle access pilot in the market on visitors, traders and nearby residents.
Researchers plan to analyze traffic camera data, merchant feedback and visitor survey responses to develop recommendations for future street operations that balance pedestrian safety, deliveries, emergency access and the overall visitor experience.
During the Flower Festival, Pike Place and Pike Street will be closed to traffic from 10am to 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
