City to close segment of 70th Ave.

By Meghan Erkkinen

Fife Free Press
merkkinen@tacomaweekly.com
Published on: August 14, 2008

Many residents in the southern part of Fife can expect delays and detours this September. A construction project along 70th Avenue just south of Valley Avenue will shut down the street for 17 days around the middle of the month.

The purpose of the project is to replace a Wapato Creek culvert that goes under the road in preparation for more construction to take place in 2009.

Originally, when the city called for bids, it requested that at least one lane of the road be kept open in each direction during the work, except for two weekend closures. The city received seven bids on the project. E.J. Rody & Sons, Inc. offered an alternate bid that is about $42,000 less than the second lowest bid – but which calls for the road to be fully closed for the 17-day period.

The city felt the E.J. Rody & Sons bid was the best option because the project would be completed more quickly, traffic safety would be improved, and the city would save money. The city council agreed with the staff’s suggestion and approved the 17-day road closure, while still acknowledging the burden on residents.

“I’m for this even though it’s a minor cost savings,” said Councilmember Butch Brooks. “Even if the road was open, traffic would be backed up.”

Councilmember Glenn Hull, who lives in the Radiance development south of the project, said he was in support of the shortened timeline with the road closure.

“I think the council should move forward with this and get this done as soon as possible,” he said, adding that he talked to two members of the Radiance Homeowners’ Association, who were also in favor of the expedited project.

Councilmember Nancy de Booy expressed some concern for the residents who would be affected.

“My concern is for the citizens who are going to be a little upset,” she said. “I trust that there will be signage very early on so they’ll be aware of this (project).”

She added, however, “it’s high time we did it.”

The city plans to directly mail residents in the area who will be affected by the project. Much of the traffic in the area seeking to cross the railroad tracks will be diverted to Frank Albert Road, but others will likely find other ways to get to their destinations.

The culvert replacement project is part of a 70th Avenue/Valley Avenue widening project. The project will widen 70th Avenue between 20th Street and the northern edge of the

railroad tracks.

A new, longer culvert is necessary before widening can begin at this portion of the project.

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