White Center Now: The blog about White Center

An updated reminder from King County Roads as the 16th SW closure approaches:

Drainage system upgrade to close 16th Ave SW intersection in White Center, March 11 to April 1

The north half of the 16th Avenue SW and SW 104th Street intersection is scheduled to be closed March 11 through April 1 as King County crews replace an aging drainage pipe. The work is being done by the Road Services Division of the Department of Local Services.

The intersection closure is Phase 2 of a three-phase drainage upgrade on SW 104th Street between 15th and 17th Avenues SW. The entire project, which began March 3, is expected to take up to six weeks total.

This work lays the groundwork for upcoming pedestrian and traffic safety improvements as part of the 16th Avenue SW Pedestrian Safety and Traffic Calming Project.

Businesses on 16th Avenue SW remain open, traffic detour on 15th Avenue SW

Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians will follow a signed detour onto 15th Avenue SW between SW 102nd and SW 106 streets. Local access on both sides of the intersection will be maintained, and businesses on both sides of the intersection will remain open throughout the closure.

After the road reopens, work on SW 104th Street will continue through April 18, with lane shifts, parking restrictions, and temporary traffic control.

Detour map:

Part of a bigger plan to improve safety on 16th Avenue SW

This drainage project is the first step in a larger effort to improve 16th Avenue SW for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. Starting this summer, the 16th Avenue SW Pedestrian Safety and Traffic Calming Project will bring major safety upgrades, including:

-New paving on 16th Avenue SW from the White Center Cutoff (north of SW 100th Street) to SW 107th Street. All paving work will happen at night.
-New road design with one lane in each direction, a center turn lane, and bike lanes.
-Sidewalk curb extensions at key intersections to improve visibility and shorten pedestrian crossings.
-Flashing pedestrian crossing lights and high-visibility signs at intersections without traffic signals.

“We’re taking a smart, step-by-step approach to improve this intersection,” said Tricia Davis, Director of King County Road Services Division. “By replacing the underground pipe now, we avoid tearing up the road twice. We appreciate the community’s patience as we make these much-needed improvements.”

By upgrading drainage now, King County prevents future disruptions and keep summer improvements on track.

For more information, visit www.kingcounty.gov/16thAveSW, contact Broch Bender (Bbender@kingcounty.gov or 206-263-1189) or email AskLocalServices@kingcounty.gov.

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