The city of Bellevue is replacing a culvert that is failing under Northeast Eighth Street in mid-2018. Due to the nature of the work, the project will result in lane closures of the arterial around 132nd Avenue for several months.

Bellevue Utilities is inviting the public to attend an open house about the construction plans. The open house will include opportunities to talk with project staff, learn about the construction schedule and planned lane closures, and find out how to stay informed during construction.

The Kelsey Creek Culvert Replacement open house will take place from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 15 in the Odle Middle School cafeteria, 502 143rd Ave. NE.

Construction of the new culvert will require significant work on Northeast Eighth Street between 132nd and 134th avenues, including:

• Up to two weeks closure of all lanes on Northeast Eighth, just east of 132nd Avenue, with detour routes in late July
• Long-term lane closures from June until late October, resulting in a single lane of traffic in each direction

The safety and reliability of this transportation route is a priority for the city. A temporary repair to the culvert was made in 2011. Replacing the aging and deteriorating pipe through which Kelsey Creek flows under the street will ensure the long-term safety of the roadway, protect critical utilities and improve fish passage for salmon.

Carrying over 23,000 vehicles a day, Northeast Eighth Street is an important thoroughfare for Bellevue residents and regional commuters, and has a network of underground utilities such as water and gas lines beneath it.

Sign up for constructions alerts and find more information at www.bellevuewa.gov/KelseyCreekCulvert.