GIS Implementation for Managing Construction Work Zones: A Case Study of Seattle

The rapid development in Seattle has significantly increased construction activities within the right-of-way (ROW), leading to widespread work zones (WZs). Effective management of these work zones is critical to protecting local communities’ mobility, safety, and economy. In 2017, the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) adopted dotMaps, a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based tool, to improve the ROW’s coordination and management of construction activities. Since its adoption, the tool has reportedly enabled SDOT to exercise finer control over the city’s WZs. This research examines the early implementation of dotMaps at SDOT, investigating the key factors contributing to a smooth deployment. Data were collected through direct observation of SDOT’s WZ management processes, interviews with key stakeholders, and analysis of primary documents. The findings outline and analyze these factors, including user interface design, leveraging permitting authority, data streamlining, and strategies for external stakeholder engagement. This paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on implementing GIS to optimize WZ management for ROW utility and construction projects.