116th Avenue NE Reconstruction - January 2007 to Spring 2008
What sections of 116th Avenue NE were closed?
We implemented two separate, consecutive closures along 116th Avenue NE.
Closure 1 involved the intersection of 116th Avenue NE and NE 128th Street. We reopened the intersection on April 2.
Closure 2 involved a section of 116th Avenue NE south of NE 128th Street. We partially reopened this section on Dec. 10, and expect to complete work in the area in spring 2008.
Why were these closures needed?
We needed to raise the elevation of 116th Avenue NE to meet the height of the new NE 128th Street bridge we built over I-405. We also needed to rebuild a section of 116th Avenue NE south of NE 128th Street to provide a smooth transition up the hill to the intersection.
Why was an extended closure necessary?
To rebuild this street properly, we had to remove a lot of existing material beneath the street that was beginning to fail in a few places. Because of the marshy soil in the Totem Lake area, crews then had to rebuild the roadway with lightweight geofoam blocks. A new bridge was also required to replace two existing culverts that connect the wetlands on either side of 116th Avenue NE. This is an environmental improvement that provides better connections between the wetlands on both sides of the roadway. During each of these activities the contractor encountered delays due to a number of unexpected conditions that combined to extend the duration of construction.
Why was the reopening delayed?
The contractor’s work to reconstruct 116th Avenue NE from NE 128th Street south to McDonald’s was delayed by weather and wetlands-related issues. The placement of the lightweight fill called geofoam in the section of 116th to be rebuilt was labor intensive and very slow going.
We partially reopened the roadway on Dec. 10, 2007, and crews will continue to work to finish sidewalks/walkways, electrical systems, and other items. Drivers should expect flaggers directing traffic during some of these activities.
Thank you for your continued patience as we make improvements to ease congestion and enhance safety on and around I-405 in Totem Lake.