When the Denny Substation is energized in the spring of 2018, it is expected to become a focal point for surrounding neighborhoods. Seattle architecture firm NBBJ designed the substation to include an off-leash dog park and a 0.25-mile (0.4-km) interpretative walking loop elevated by gentle slopes that will provide unique views of Denny Way and the cityscape.
The utility has partnered with the Seattle Office of Arts and Culture to integrate both permanent and temporary art into the substation. The City of Seattle designates 1% of capital budgets for art. Permanent art will include a sculpture called “Transforest” that blends the natural beauty of the region with the history of power generation and transmission. Built into two corners of the substation will be a series of switches called “Switchwall” that move with the wind and turn colored lights on and off.
Following are images from the planning and beginning construction of the substation, featured in the February 2016 issue of Transmission & Distribution World: "Seattle Unveils NexGen Substation."