The Office of the Grand Connection launched in July 2025 to propel Bellevue’s signature downtown placemaking initiative. Initiated in 2014, the Grand Connection program functions as a series of cohesive, connected and memorable spaces and pedestrian-focused experiences and initiatives through Bellevue’s thriving central business district.
The Grand Connection Corridor
With a length of more than 1.5 miles, the Grand Connection begins at the waterfront of Lake Washington at Meydenbauer Bay Park, and winds through Old Bellevue and Downtown Park. It continues through Bellevue’s dynamic retail and civic-focused parts of downtown, across I-405 and ultimately connects with the regional Eastrail in the Wilburton commercial area.
Goals for the Office of the Grand Connection
The new office will centralize staff expertise from across departments and streamline decision making to innovate and transform our public spaces along the corridor. Existing projects associated with the Grand Connection will be delivered and managed by Office staff.
The Office will focus on delivering the core elements of the program:
- Grand Connection Crossing: The Office will advance design and construction of the signature program element – the Grand Connection Crossing over I-405. The city anticipates opening the crossing in 2030, and once complete, will provide safer travel over the freeway for those walking, biking and rolling. The structure will also influence the land use patterns of the Wilburton commercial area, improving connectivity to Bellevue’s downtown core.
- Placemaking and space activation in Downtown: The Office will continue project implementations that foster open spaces, events and activation of public spaces and improved access to recreation and transportation options through the heart of the city.
- Redevelopment of city-owned properties: The Office is leading a collaborative process to realize transit-oriented development at two city-owned sites in Downtown and Wilburton. Once redeveloped the properties will contribute to the experience of the crossing, support Bellevue’s continued economic innovation, and seamlessly integrate our urban neighborhoods.
Explore the Corridor
In partnership with Visit Bellevue and the Bellevue Downtown Association, new temporary wayfinding signage will dot the Grand Connection corridor. Community members are encouraged to scan the QR code or send a text to learn more about things to do, ways to get around and our plans to enhance Bellevue’s Downtown and emerging neighborhoods. Visit the “Explore the Corridor” page to learn more and join the discussion.