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City gives Meeker Street construction update; major work and closures expected in 2026
Summary
Public works staff updated the council on completed and upcoming Meeker Street projects, grant-funded reconstruction segments, bridge deck work requiring weekend closures and a 2026 window of heavier disruption where downtown access will be constrained.
The City of Kent presented a progress update on Meeker Street at its April 1 workshop, outlining completed reconstruction, current work in front of Kent Elementary and 60th Avenue South, and larger federally and state-funded construction phases scheduled for 2026 and later.
Public Works staff noted sections from the Green River to 60th Avenue South have been reconstructed under recent development and grant programs; new sidewalks and curbs on segments already completed follow the newer Meeker standards. Current work includes reconstruction in front of Kent Elementary (60th Avenue South and Meeker), funded through a combination of Transportation Alternatives and other state grants. Staff said this work narrows vehicle lanes in places to improve walkability and shortens crossing distances near the school.
The Meeker Street Bridge over the Green River was repainted last summer but still requires replacement of the roadway deck (the driving surface); staff said contractors plan several weekend closures in summer 2025 to replace the deck and that the work is weather‑dependent. Staff estimated four to five weekend closures, subject to contractor scheduling and weather.
Major reconstruction of the corridor between Washington Avenue and Interurban Avenue is planned for 2026 under two federal grants; work that year is expected to require lane and access restrictions that will constrain downtown access. Staff said the city will keep an eastbound lane open into downtown but two‑way traffic through the construction zone cannot be maintained during much of the work; alternative routes will be available and staff will run public messaging to prepare residents and businesses.
Other projects highlighted: roundabout construction on Witte Road (two roundabouts on Reith Road / Southeast 250th area) is nearing final paving and striping with a late‑May/early‑June ribbon-cutting anticipated, and additional grant-funded segments (Restaurant Row and sections to Sixth Avenue) are scheduled over the next several years. Public Works reported more than $23 million in grants secured to date for Meeker Street work.
Staff said they will continue to update council and to provide public notifications, and will post closures and schedules on the city’s Drive Kent information page.
