SEATTLE — Nov. 2, 2011 — SEATTLE – Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center has filed a petition with the City of Seattle for permission to connect the Center’s new research building at 1100 Eastlake Ave. E. with its adjacent South Lake Union campus. The connection will be a skybridge across Eastlake between Aloha Street and East Nelson Place. The Center’s proposal will preserve existing views, and includes a package of public benefits that will contribute to pedestrian and bicycle safety and mobility in the adjacent neighborhoods as well as improve the pedestrian experience along Eastlake.
Upon occupancy next year, the 1100 Eastlake building will house many research programs, faculty and staff, including those directly involved in patient care and other clinical activities. Safe and efficient access to facilities and colleagues on the main campus is needed. Because of traffic sightline concerns, the construction of a safe, street-level pedestrian crosswalk is not currently permissible at this location. With an anticipated 1,000 pedestrian street crossings each day, safety is of paramount concern.
“Scientific advancements are dependent on the sharing of ideas and collaboration. The opening of the new building will enhance scientific interaction but at the same time creates safety concerns for faculty and staff who must access all areas of our campus on a 24/7 basis,” said Scott Rusch, vice president of Facilities and Operations at the Hutchinson Center. “Once constructed, the skybridge will facilitate scientific collaboration and ensure the safety of the Center’s faculty and staff.”
The Center has engaged in outreach with neighborhood and community stakeholders and has generated support for the proposal from the South Lake Union Community Council and the South Lake Union Chamber of Commerce, among others.
The City’s review process will be public. A decision by the City is expected by mid-2012.
MEDIA CONTACT
Kristen Woodward
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
(206) 667-5095
kwoodwar@fhcrc.org
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Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
At Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, our interdisciplinary teams of world-renowned scientists and humanitarians work together to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, HIV/AIDS and other diseases. Our researchers, including three Nobel laureates, bring a relentless pursuit and passion for health, knowledge and hope to their work and to the world. For more information, please visit www.fhcrc.org.