Committee recommends renewal of Pike Place Market skybridge permit with public‑benefit elevator upgrades

The Seattle City Council Transportation Committee on Jan. 21 recommended passage of Council Bill 120‑924 to renew an expired skybridge (skybridge) permit at Pike Place Market.

SDOT presenters told the committee the original permit was granted in 1989 and the proposed new permit would be for an initial 15‑year term with one renewable 15‑year term. Under Seattle Municipal Code requirements, renewed skybridge permits must provide a public benefit; SDOT described the market’s proposed benefits as an elevator upgrade (to replace an older unit with a faster, higher‑capacity system), widening and ADA upgrades to a fire‑escape stair, and installation of bike racks at Alaskan Way.

SDOT said a midpoint check will occur at the end of the first 15‑year term to confirm continued use consistent with the permit and to update terms before any second 15‑year renewal.

Council members expressed support and discussed coordination around related waterfront connections and the overlook walk. Council member Bob Kettle said SDOT and Pike Place Market are convening stakeholders for a meeting in early April to coordinate work around the market, Western Avenue and Alaskan Way; Kettle said he had met with the Pike Place Market PDA executive director and SDOT director about those efforts.

The committee moved, seconded and recorded a roll‑call vote of 5–0 in favor; the recommendation will be forwarded to the Jan. 28, 2025 City Council meeting for final action.

—

Sources: SDOT briefing; roll‑call recorded at the Transportation Committee meeting, Jan. 21, 2025.