Southeast 6th Street project: city previews design, budget and timeline for Town Center link

Sammamish Public Works staff updated council on the Southeast 6th Street Improvements (Phase A), a Town Center connector that will replace an existing park parking area with a travel lane, angled parking, a 10-foot pedestrian sidewalk, rain gardens and lighting.

Director of Public Works Audrey Starcey and City Engineer Lehi Wu reviewed the final design and funding. Staff said the project is funded by transportation impact fees (just under $2.0 million) and stormwater capital funds (about $640,000) for a total programmed budget of $2,550,000; Pyle and Wu explained that current estimated project costs are approximately $1,830,000 with design costs under $400,000 and an estimated construction cost around $1,234,000. Bids will open on Aug. 6 and staff will return with a construction-cost recommendation when the lowest responsive and responsible bidder is identified.

The design retains three connected rain gardens to filter and infiltrate runoff and introduces pedestrian lighting and benches; the sidewalk width will be 10 feet to prioritize walkability in Town Center. Staff noted the project timeline is weather dependent: with favorable conditions, staff estimates about 35 working days of construction and substantial completion could be achieved this season; otherwise, the street will be opened and unfinished items completed in spring.

What’s next: Staff will open construction bids Aug. 6, evaluate bids, and return to council with a recommended contract and updated project costs in August.