City to upgrade Juanita Creek culvert

KIRKLAND, Wash. – Early in July, contractors will replace a culvert that carries Juanita Creek under 111th Ave NE to reduce erosion along the creek’s bank and allow for fish migration.

The existing pipe is clogged with sediment, which reduces the flow of water through the pipe. This allows sediment and water to back up, eroding Juanita Creek’s bank and undermining its trees. It also prevents fish from migrating upstream. The failing 48-inch steel stormwater pipe will be replaced by a 12-foot-wide concrete box culvert. The new box culvert will allow water to flow properly and make it possible for fish to migrate through the culvert.

Dungeness Construction, the City’s contractor, will close 111th Avenue Northeast, just north of Northeast 141st Street for 21 days from July 15 to August 12. A detour route around the closed section of 111th Avenue Northeast will be available. Northeast 141st Street will remain open. Dungeness Construction will maintain access for local residents, mail delivery, garbage pick-up and emergency vehicles.   

“This project is an important investment in the health of Juanita Creek,” said Public Works Director Kathy Brown. “The City is always pleased when we have the opportunity to invest in upgrading infrastructure that benefits our residents and improves fish habitat.” 

For more information visit the project page at http://bit.ly/JuanitaCulvert. Questions can also be addressed to Christian Knight, neighborhood services outreach coordinator, cknight@kirklandwa.gov, (425) 587-3831; or Patrick Herbig, project engineer, pherbig@kirklandwa.gov, (425) 587-3841.