Westbound I-90 from East Sunset Way to SR 900 was last paved in 2005, and the three bridges on this section of the highway were built over 50 years ago. Traffic volumes have doubled in this area since 1990. Roughly 45,000 drivers now travel westbound I-90 through Issaquah every day. Safety improvements must be made to keep the highway in good repair as the number of travelers using I-90 increases.
New pavement: The asphalt on this stretch of I-90 has outlived its anticipated 15-year lifespan. Most of the pavement hasn’t been updated since 2005. Through the years, cracks, ruts, and potholes have developed. These make the roadway uneven, allowing water to pool and reducing tire traction. This causes drivers to slow down to handle the slick conditions, which increases travel times. Removing the old, worn-out asphalt and replacing it with new pavement will provide safer driving conditions and extend the life of the highway.
Bridge expansion joints: The westbound bridges over Issaquah Creek, 4th Avenue Northwest, and Front Street North were built in 1971. These bridges will have their decks removed and repaired, expansion joints repaired, and new waterproof membranes installed. The bridges will be open during repairs, but travelers should prepare for lane restrictions that may last through the weekend.
Repaving bridges: In addition to expansion joints, crews will repave the five westbound bridges over Tibbets Creek, Issaquah Creek, 4th Ave. Northwest (two bridges), and Front Street North. Repaving and repairing our existing highways and bridges reduces the need for emergency repairs which can be costly to taxpayers and cause additional congestion if the work must be done during peak commute hours. Depending on the extent of deck repairs, lane reductions could be extended through the weekend.
$7.5 Million from pre-existing funds (PEF).
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