Safe Routes project on 112th to build sidewalks, bike lanes and lighting; bids due next week

City public works staff described the Safe Routes to School project on 112th Street (Far West to Holden), funded through state and federal Safe Routes grants. The project will add sidewalks (north side), bike lanes, limited street lighting work, radar feedback signs and minor storm drainage improvements; most heavy work is expected to be short‑duration with only brief lane closures.

The project is currently out to advertise and bids will be opened next Wednesday, with a construction award recommendation to council anticipated in mid‑February and construction to begin in late March. Staff estimated construction will take roughly two months, with the bulk of disruptive paving and curb work confined to a short window. "Construction would be expected to start late March, and this one won't take very long. We expect it to take probably about two months in total," the project manager said.

Council members and the public raised concerns about school impacts and timing, given adjacent projects. Staff said they had coordinated with the Clover Park School District for student access, will request scheduling accommodations from contractors where feasible, and may include contract addenda to limit major work during peak school times. They also noted an estimated three fir trees on the north side may be removed but that the project aims to preserve as many trees as possible and that tree replanting is constrained under Safe Routes grant rules.

Next steps: staff will evaluate bid results, consider addenda to reduce school‑period impacts and return to council with an award recommendation.