Project news

• Monday, Aug. 30, to the morning of Wednesday, Sept. 15: Expect nighttime lane reductions and lane shifts on SR 522 between NE 80th Street and NE 95th Street for grinding and paving. At least one lane in each direction will remain open. This is potentially noisy nighttime work that is being done in accordance with a noise variance from the city of Seattle. For noise complaints or to request free earplugs, call toll free: 1-888-808-4DOT (4368).   
• Wednesday, Sept. 15 until further notice: expect a lane shift on each direction of SR 522/Lake City Way at NE 95th Street in Seattle. Crews will continue construction on a retaining wall along the roadway. 
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Needs and benefits

These sections of State Route 522, commonly known as Lake City Way or Northeast Bothell Way, were last paved in 2002. Asphalt is generally only intended to last 15 years. With nearly 40,000 vehicles using this portion of the highway each day, the aging asphalt is cracked and needs to be replaced. Improving the highway surface removes cracks and wheel ruts where water can collect. It also eliminates potholes and helps prevent new ones from forming, providing travelers a safer, smoother ride.

Beginning in summer 2020, WSDOT contractor crews will repave the following areas on SR 522:

• Both directions between the I-5 interchange and SR 523/Northeast 145th Street in Seattle.
• Both directions between 58th Avenue Northeast and 61st Avenue Northeast in Kenmore.
• A total of 154 curb ramps between the sidewalk and streets, improving pedestrian access for people of all abilities.
• The I-5 off- and on-ramps in Seattle.
• Paving will continue in spring/summer 2021.

In addition, WSDOT is working with the Seattle Department of Transportation to make pedestrian improvements at four locations along the highway, including new crosswalks and crossing signals, new sidewalks and improved curb ramps to provide better sidewalk connections for people of all abilities. 

Most of this work will take place at night and will require lane reductions, which could create delays for late-night travelers. Some daytime work also could include lane reductions, but will be scheduled to avoid peak hour, peak direction traffic. WSDOT and SDOT will work with the contractor to maintain access to businesses and residences at all times.

Timeline

• December 2019: Project was advertised for competitive bidding.
• February 2020: Project awarded to Titan Earthwork.
• Spring 2020: Construction begins.
• Fall 2021: Construction is scheduled to be complete.

Funding

The estimated project cost is $15 million.