The Seattle City Council has unanimously approved a significant property tax levy for the November ballot, marking the city’s largest investment in transportation at $1.55 billion over eight years. This funding will enhance roads, bridges, sidewalks, and bikeways.
A last-minute amendment by Councilmember Dan Strauss allocated $20 million for the Burke-Gilman Trail’s “missing link,” a decision met with some opposition but seen as a way to resolve a long-standing debate. The levy will replace the expiring $930 million Levy to Move Seattle and will account for 30% of the Seattle Department of Transportation’s budget.
Property owners will pay 65 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, leading to an estimated $520 annual cost for owners of median-priced homes. Key highlights include:
- $403 million for street maintenance
- $221 million for bridge repairs
- $193 million for pedestrian safety enhancements
- $160.5 million for Vision Zero and school safety programs
- $151 million for transit improvements
- $133.5 million for bikeways, including the Burke-Gilman Trail
- $69 million for climate initiatives
- $66.5 million for public space enhancements
This levy is expected to leverage additional funding, potentially exceeding $1.55 billion, and could access federal grants for further transportation improvements.
