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Renton Transit Center
Renton, Washington
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Renton Transit Center
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The Renton Transit Center relys extensively on
the use of concrete pavement. |
The new Renton Transportation Center serves seventeen Metro and
Sound Transit routes and was constructed using distinctive flatwork
patterns for traffic-calming and delineation of transit zones from
the public zones in Renton, Washington.
The project is a joint partnership between King County Metro Transit
and the City of Renton formed for the development of a new transit
center in downtown Renton. The new facility serves both Metro and
Sound Transit routes that provide service throughout the greater
King County region.
Project Highlights
Highlights of the new transit center include the use of craftsman-type
design elements that will help create an identifiable image in downtown
Renton. The project incorporates clear way-finding elements within
the at-grade improvements. Colored concrete, as an example, identifies
the transit zone vs. the public or enterprise zone adjacent to storefront
activities. The score patterns also clearly identify the transit
shelters as a terminus or place of refuge for the rider.
The flatwork pattern at the primary intersection of the project
is smaller with a different texture, creating an obvious traffic-calming
feature in the area for pedestrian safety. A state-of-the-art crosswalk
system is also included for pedestrian comfort and safety. This
system features runway-type lighting activated by infrared sensors
that prompt vehicle operators to see activity within the crosswalks.
Inviting color and patterns enhance the associated parking area,
which doubles as a plaza for gathering or events. Careful attention
was given to the transition between the parking and sidewalk grades
in order to create the feeling of a pedestrian plaza.
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A lighting system cast with the roadway alerts vehicle operators to pedestrian activity within the crossswalk. | Continuous covered walkways enhance the pedestrian connections
linking the transit users to Logan Street and areas to the west
of downtown. Also, the boulevard feel of Burnett and its large canopy
of trees create an intimate and inviting atmosphere for the pedestrian.
Coffee vendors and public restrooms are provided as customer amenities.
Completed in September of 2001, the combination of architecture,
revitalized pedestrian environment and amenities, and incorporation
of art and history will make the Renton Transit Center a bright
and positive contribution to downtown.
The total project cost was $3.8 million.
Project Credits
Location: Renton, Washington
Owner: King County Metro / City of Renton
Engineer: Parametrix, Inc.
Contractor: Gary Merlino Construction Company
Concrete Supplier: Stoneway Concrete
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