Tommy Owens, city engineer, presented several transportation projects the city expects to advance in 2026 and 2027, highlighting grant-funded pedestrian safety work and a contractor-ready trail project.

Owens described the North Hill Elementary Walkway Improvements Project, which will construct curb, gutter and sidewalk near North Hill Elementary and upgrade a pedestrian crossing on 8th Street. The project received about $3 million from a WSDOT Safe Routes to School grant, and staff expect to go to bid in early 2026 with construction spanning 2026 and 2027.

On the Barnes Creek Trail project (16th to 20th), Owens said the council previously awarded the contract and the contractor is awaiting utility relocations (Lumen) before starting; the project received about $2 million from Sound Transit and $3.5 million in state appropriations. Owens said the contractor is expected to start about mid-December once utilities are relocated.

Owens also said the neighborhood traffic calming program received bids for five locations to install 10 speed bumps; the city will present a bid award to council next week and expects installation as weather allows into 2026.

Councilmembers and staff discussed utilities relocation responsibilities and franchise agreements for companies such as Lumen; staff said franchise agreements and coordination determine whether companies remove obsolete equipment when relocating facilities.