Rethinking the Role of Urban Freeway: A Remediation of the I-5 Freeway in Downtown Seattle

Abstract

Three major problems related to the urban freeway are discussed in this thesis. Firstly, the impact of air and noise pollution on people’s health has been increased by having freeways in cities. Secondly, urban freeways impede social and economic equity since they are most likely to be placed in low-income communities and minority neighborhoods in American cities. Lastly, urban freeways create voids generating disconnected spatial experience. The goal of this project is to activate the space around a part of the I-5 freeway in Downtown Seattle and form a safe, clean, transparent, and sustainable urban environment. In this case, the design will respond to air and noise pollution to help reduce health risks. The design will also address the issue of socio-economic equity by providing multi-use and sustainable developments. Furthermore, by keeping a high level of penetrability, accessibility, and visibility, the site experience will be altered and improved along the I-5 freeway.