Plan of Seattle; Report of the Municipal Plans Commission (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1911 Excerpt: ...these plans have not yet been laid before the people, some citizens are urging the construction of a viaduct along Railroad Avenue from Holgate Street or vicinity, across the East and West Waterways to West Seattle. The objections to this scheme are so apparent that it seems strange they are not more seriously considered by those interested in it, who no doubt desire the ultimate good of the city. The benefits of the viaduct would be transitory. The projectors of the scheme are endeavoring to convince themselves and others that the benefit resulting therefrom would be a complete revolution in transportation between the divisions of the city lying on either side of Elliott Bay. This might be the result if it were possible to construct a fixed bridge at ordinary street level which would be unimpeded in its functions by demands other than those of travelers to and from their daily vocations. Such a condition, however, we know is not within the range of possibilities. The necessity of two draws and the fact that the proposed viaduct would be many feet above street level, face every consideration of this matter. It may safely be asserted that there has never been, and never will be, a draw operating between two parts of a busy town that did not prove a serious drawback to every interest, public and private, therein involved. The people to be served by the draws contemplated here would be taught a speedy and unnecessary lesson of patience and endurance. It has been urged in behalf of the viaduct scheme that one has only to recall established precedent to regard it with favor. Ignoring the unsatisfactory, annoying and blighting effects of draws at Portland, Oregon, they designate Chicago and Milwaukee as examples of their extended, successful existence. As a matte...