This spring we shared the great news about the new trail bridge over I-405 and the 2.5 miles of paved trail coming to the Eastrail through our partnership with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT).
Now it is time to start preparing for the construction. WSDOT’s contractors will begin work soon on 2.5 miles of trail south of I-90 which will result in nice wide paved trail with a gravel shoulder. The first step is to test soils under the current gravel trail. Contractors will drill a series of test holes along the section of future paved trail to guide engineering decisions for retaining walls, drainage, and paving.
This work will require short term trail detours. The detours are expected to start as soon as November 25 and last approximately three weeks. Detours are not expected to occur on the weekends. These detours will direct trail users to either the Lake Washington Loop Trail, 106 Ave SE, or Washington Boulevard SE. Workers will be on the trail from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Later this winter construction is expected to start on the 2.5 miles of paved trail. This will require the closures of existing gravel Eastrail trail in this segment, but don’t worry. The Lake Loop Trail will remain open until the paved Eastrail trail is complete so you will still be able to pedal or run on a trail in this area. Overall this new 2.5 miles of paved trail is expected to be open in late 2021.