Program on the Environment

Public transportation plays a vital role in creating sustainable, accessible, and connected cities. Seattle’s current streetcar system operates on two unlinked lines, limiting efficiency and leaving central corridors underused. To address this gap, my Capstone with the Seattle Subway Foundation focused on researching and writing a prospectus for The Culture Connector, a proposed line that would connect the existing streetcars through downtown Seattle. The project combined qualitative interviews with local business owners, community outreach at public events, and analysis of transportation and economic impact studies to evaluate the proposal’s potential outcomes. Findings showed that most businesses were optimistic about the project’s ability to increase visibility, foot traffic, and economic activity, while also expressing concerns about temporary construction disruptions and rising rents in nearby areas. Data suggested that linking the lines could significantly improve transit accessibility, potentially doubling ridership, reducing vehicle congestion, and lowering emissions, which aligns with Seattle’s broader sustainability and mobility goals. Overall, this project demonstrates how sustainable transit development can foster community connection, promote equitable access, and support local economies. By bridging key areas of the city, The Culture Connector has the potential to strengthen Seattle’s transition toward a more inclusive, efficient, and environmentally responsible urban future.