Mayor Bruce Harrell and Councilmember Rob Saka (District 1) today announced a community-driven solution to address longstanding roadway safety concerns on Delridge Way SW. In response to concerns from the Refugee and Immigrant Family Center (RIFC) families, staff, and neighbors, three low-cost improvements will enhance safe access to RIFC while maintaining roadway safety for all users.
Last Fall, Councilmember Saka proposed and the Council adopted $2 million in City funding to prioritize safe, equitable access along this critical arterial — including the installation of a Metro bus stop in front of the RIFC building.
Thanks to a collaborative effort with the Mayor’s Office and the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), the adopted solutions will achieve these goals at a fraction of the original budget. The solutions are estimated to cost approximately $500,000.
“My proposal has always been rooted in equity—ensuring safe access to RIFC while maintaining safety for everyone who relies on Delridge Way,” said Councilmember Saka. “I want to thank Mayor Harrell and SDOT for working with my office to find a truly balanced, compromised solution that respects community voices and existing infrastructure.”
“I’m grateful for the creative thinking at SDOT that produced this solution to maintain the existing safety infrastructure and create additional accessibility options for residents,” said Mayor Harrell.
“It has been a pleasure to work with Councilmember Saka to understand the need for RIFC accessibility while maintaining corridor safety and operational integrity for the H-line transit route,” said SDOT Interim Director Adiam Emery.
The three quick-build, cost-effective improvements include:
- Designated Pick-Up/Drop-Off Zones: Install signage for designated pickup/drop off within a short walk of RIFC for families, including areas on Delridge Way SW and SW Willow Street. Passenger load zones can provide a safe, designated space less than 300 feet from RIFC’s entrance (to be completed this summer).
- Non-Peak Parking in Bus Lane: Install signage for parking (which is already allowed) in the southbound bus lane during non-PM peak hours (except between 3-7PM) to facilitate RIFC pick-up and drop-off (to be completed this summer).
- Southbound Turn-Around (Jug-Handle): A safer proposed turn-around at or near 22nd Ave SW allowing vehicles arriving from the south to head north and loop back south without obstructing traffic (to be completed by end of the year).
Additional quotes:
“These solutions reflect what’s possible when the City listens with intention and acts with care. These improvements will significantly enhance the safety and peace of mind of our families, especially those walking with young children or managing daily drop-offs. We’re thankful to Councilmember Saka for prioritizing equity and to Mayor Harrell for his leadership in supporting our community’s needs.”
– Luz Casio, Executive Director, RIFC
“We’re grateful to see our concerns not only heard but acted upon. These improvements will make a real difference for the families we serve — many of whom walk with young children or rely on drop-off and pick-up. This thoughtful approach reflects the kind of partnership we value in our city leaders.”
– Karina Rojas, Center Director, SouthWest Early Learning
“I appreciate Councilmember Saka’s collaborative leadership on this project. There will be fewer risky U-turns across the double yellow lines on Delridge, which will result in a safer neighborhood for all. The fact that this project will end up costing about a quarter of the original allocation illustrates what local government is capable of when parties are willing to communicate and compromise in the interest of the greater good.”
– Brendan Kolding, Resident, North Delridge