On Monday, September 26, The Seattle Department of Transportation will host an open house to share the latest information regarding two important street projects in north Seattle before construction starts this fall.

Beginning in October (exact date not yet determined), SDOT will reconstruct N/NW 85th Street from 15th Avenue NW to I-5 with new concrete pavement in the most heavily traveled areas and will repave the remaining lanes with asphalt. SDOT will also repave Greenwood Avenue N from N 85th Street to N 73rd Street with new asphalt. Both streets are heavily traveled and have deteriorated over time.

Starting in January, NW 85th Street will be closed in the eastbound direction, section by section, starting from the west end and working toward I-5. The entire project on both streets is expected to be complete by fall 2012.

When lanes are closed, traffic volumes on nearby arterial streets will be higher as drivers seek alternate routes. SDOT will make adjustments to signals at major intersections to help improve traffic conditions. Travelers will be encouraged to plan ahead, leave extra time, and use alternate modes of transportation when possible. Project staff will continue to work closely with neighbors, businesses, commuters, and local agencies through the construction.

The project is funded by the Bridging the Gap tax levy passed by Seattle voters in 2006.

The open house will take place on Monday, September 26 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Greenwood Senior Center, 525 N 85th Street.

Visitors are welcome to stop by anytime to talk with the project team; no formal presentation will be provided.

For more information, visit the project website at http://www.seattle.gov/transportation/pave_85th.htm.