While the paving project will impact traffic, it is much needed - as can be seen in this photo.
In January SDOT will begin work to rebuild and repave N/NW 85th St between 15th Ave NW and I-5. Commuters, businesses and neighbors should begin planning now to avoid major traffic impacts during construction.
The project is broken down into five phases moving from west to east. Construction starts between 15th Avenue NW and 8th Avenue NW (Phase 1) and the roadway will be closed in the eastbound direction for approximately three months. All traffic, including Metro buses, will be detoured to NW 80th St. Westbound traffic will also be reduced to one lane at times.
Additional roadway work is expected to start the week of January 9 on N/NW 85th St between 8th Avenue NW and Greenwood Avenue N, requiring intermittent lane closures in the eastbound and westbound directions and multiple weekend closures at Greenwood Ave N to rebuild the intersection.
Drivers are urged to plan ahead, allow extra time, find alternate routes, avoid traveling during the busiest times of day, and consider taking the bus, walking or bicycling.
To sign up for regular construction updated, send an email to pave_85th@seattle.gov. For more information, visit http://www.seattle.gov/transportation/pave_85th.htm.