On Capitol Hill, some people really do own the road

The private segment of 18th Ave E in Capitol Hill is maintained by the eleven homeowners along the street, according to the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT). This area is classified as private property, meaning the city does not oversee its maintenance or management. The lack of a comprehensive list of private streets in Seattle adds to the confusion surrounding this segment. Recent improvements, such as a stop bar line for safety, were requested by SDOT to facilitate safe interactions with public roads. Notably, a recent home sale on this street did not disclose its private status, yet the sale price aligned with those of nearby public properties.

Homeowners may collaborate to manage maintenance costs, although specifics on their arrangements remain unclear. Seattle Public Utilities maintains easement agreements for water mains with the property owners, ensuring essential services. This situation highlights the unique complexities of private roads within urban settings and their impact on local property values.