Welcome to Bellevue Utilities News. Get timely news and updates on utility services, projects and programs. This includes the following essential utility services: water, wastewater/sewer, storm and surface water, and solid waste management.
Lake Hills Boulevard Closure Extended Through Oct. 1
The temporary closure of Lake Hills Boulevard between 151st Avenue SE and 154th Avenue SE has been extended through Oct. 1 to allow construction crews to complete the Kelsey Creek Culvert Replacement Project.
The extension is needed because crews encountered unexpected construction challenges after work began that require additional time to safely complete the project.
What this means
The section of Lake Hills Boulevard between 151st Avenue SE and 154th Avenue SE will remain closed to vehicle traffic through Oct. 1.
Detours will remain in place for vehicle traffic, the trail, crosswalk and sidewalk. We ask travelers to continue following posted detour signs and allow extra travel time when traveling through the area.
Thank you for your patience
We understand this extended closure is frustrating and appreciate the community's continued patience and understanding. Completing this work safely and correctly is essential to replacing aging infrastructure and reducing long-term flood risk in the area.
For project updates, detour information and construction schedules, visit the project webpage.
Bellevue Utilities receives $500,000 in federal funding for Lake Washington Sewer Line Project
Bellevue Utilities has been awarded $500,000 in federal funding to support planning for the Lake Washington Sewer Lines Program, an essential effort to protect public health, preserve water quality and ensure reliable wastewater service for generations to come.
Secured by Congresswoman Suzan DelBene, the funding will help advance development of a comprehensive management plan for one of Bellevue's most significant infrastructure investments.
Protecting a critical wastewater system
The Lake Washington sewer lines carry wastewater from Bellevue and neighboring communities to King County's regional treatment system. Much of this infrastructure has been in service for decades and requires long-term planning to ensure it continues operating safely and reliably.
The management plan will guide future rehabilitation and replacement of the system, helping Bellevue Utilities prioritize investments, reduce risks and maintain reliable service while protecting the health of Lake Washington.
An important milestone in a long-term effort
The $500,000 federal investment marks an important step forward, but it represents only one part of a much larger, long-term program.
The Lake Washington Sewer Lines Program is one of Bellevue Utilities' largest and most complex infrastructure initiatives. Planning, designing and constructing improvements will take decades and require continued collaboration and investment from local, state and federal partners.
As Bellevue continues to grow, investing in critical infrastructure like the Lake Washington sewer lines will help protect public health, support environmental stewardship and ensure reliable wastewater service for future generations.
Thank you to our partners
Bellevue Utilities appreciates Congresswoman Suzan DelBene for championing this federal investment and thanks the many regional, state and federal partners who continue to support this critical infrastructure program.
Working together, these partnerships will help ensure the Lake Washington Sewer Lines Program can move forward to protect one of our region's most valuable natural resources while providing reliable service for the communities that depend on it.
Learn more about the Lake Washington Sewer Lines Program by visiting the project webpage.
City issues RFP for future solid waste services
The City of Bellevue issued a request for proposals on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026 for the next citywide solid waste collection contract, marking an important milestone in planning for the future of garbage, recycling and organics services.
The new contract will begin July 2028 and is designed to ensure Bellevue residents and businesses continue to receive reliable, affordable and environmentally responsible solid waste services. In the procurement process, the city will evaluate proposals based on a variety of factors, including industry best practices, community needs, compliance with state laws and local policies, and innovative technology.
Invitation to Propose
Companies interested in submitting a proposal are encouraged to register with the Public Purchase System, the city's online procurement platform. Registration allows vendors to receive solicitation notifications, access procurement documents and submit proposals electronically.
Procurement Timeline
The city anticipates the following timeline for selecting its next solid waste service provider:
- Summer 2026: Request for Proposals issued
- Late 2026: Proposal evaluation
- Early 2027: Updates to the Environmental Services Commission, City Council review and direction on recommended vendor
- Mid-2027: Contract award
- 2027–2028: Transition planning and service preparation
- July 2028: New solid waste contract begins
Learn More
Additional information about Bellevue's future solid waste services, procurement process and project timeline is available at
Future Solid Waste Services.
Paper shredding and recycling event
Join us for Bellevue's Paper Shredding and Recycling Event and securely dispose of confidential paperwork while helping it get recycled.
Date: Saturday, Aug. 15
Time: 9 a.m.–noon (or until the trucks are full)
Location: Sammamish High School (Enter from 140th Avenue Southeast)
Limit: 4 file-size boxes or 5 bags per vehicle.
🚫 Please leave these at home:
• Plastic of any kind
• Cardboard
• 3-ring binders
• Computer disks
• X-rays
• Garbage
💡 Did you know? Paper shredded at this event is recycled. Paper shredded at home belongs in the garbage because it's too small to be recycled through curbside programs.
Learn more about what to shred: atg.wa.gov/what-shred
Celebrating a community milestone
Bellevue Utilities recently celebrated the completion of the Horizon View 2 Reservoir and Pump Station Project with a community ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking an important investment in Bellevue's drinking water system.
The celebration recognized the neighbors, community members and project partners who provided valuable feedback during planning and showed patience throughout construction. Their participation helped shape a project that will benefit the community for decades to come.
Strengthening Bellevue's Water System
The new reservoir increases Bellevue's water storage capacity, improves system reliability and helps ensure safe, dependable drinking water service for current and future generations.
This investment supports a more resilient water system and helps meet the community's needs for years to come.
Watch the Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
If you weren't able to attend the celebration, you can still be part of the milestone. A recording of the livestream is available online.
Visit BellevueWA.gov/horizon-view-2 to watch the ceremony, learn more about the project and see how this investment is strengthening Bellevue's drinking water system.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this important community investment a success.
Discover water-smart gardening at Waterwise Garden
The Waterwise Garden showcases plants and landscaping techniques that help conserve water, reduce runoff and support a healthy environment. The garden demonstrates practical solutions that homeowners can use to create attractive, low-maintenance landscapes suited to the Pacific Northwest.
Stroll through the garden to learn about:
- Water-efficient plants
- Smart watering practices
- Healthy soil techniques
- Landscaping that supports pollinators and wildlife
BellevueWA.gov/waterwise-garden.
Survey highlights Utilities affordability, reliability and communication priorities
Nearly 1,900 community members participated in Bellevue Utilities' 2026 Community Survey, sharing feedback on utility services, billing, communications and future priorities.
The survey found that residents highly value the safety and reliability of Bellevue's water, wastewater, stormwater and solid waste services. At the same time, affordability emerged as the community's top concern, with many respondents wanting more information about utility rates, billing, and the investments needed to maintain critical utility infrastructure.
Survey participants also asked for:
- Clearer information about utility bills and rates
- More updates on utility projects and construction
- Improved online customer tools and account management
- More information about water conservation, recycling and water quality
How we are responding
Bellevue Utilities will use the survey results to help improve customer communications, enhance digital services, increase awareness of utility bill assistance programs and continue delivering safe, reliable utility services for the community.
Learn More
Read the complete survey results and learn more about how your feedback is helping shape future utility services: BellevueWA.gov/utilities-survey
Missed Utilities budget and rates community meeting?
If you could not join Bellevue Utilities’ virtual community meeting on June 11, you can still catch up. Watch the recorded presentation to learn about Utilities proposed 2027–2028 budget, rates and planned investments in water, wastewater and stormwater.
Stay Connected: Utilities News and Alerts Now on Facebook
Staying informed about your utilities just got easier. You can now find the latest updates, service alerts, project news, and helpful tips on our official Facebook page.
Follow us on Facebook to get timely information delivered right to your feed. It’s a simple way to stay up to date on what’s happening in your community and never miss an important update.
Go to Facebook.com/BellevueUtilities or simply search Bellevue Utilities on Facebook and help spread the word.
Let's Connect: Community Invited to Bellevue Utilities Budget and Rates Meetings
Bellevue community members are invited to attend upcoming Community Connect meetings and a virtual information session to learn more about Bellevue Utilities’ proposed budget, capital investments and utility rates.
These meetings are an opportunity for residents and businesses to hear directly from Utilities staff, ask questions and share feedback about the services that support Bellevue every day, including drinking water, wastewater and stormwater systems.
Community members can stop by any of the in-person Community Connect events or attend the virtual meeting from home.
Community Connect Meetings
- Wednesday, May 6, Mini City Hall, 1:30–3:30 p.m.
- Friday, May 15, North Bellevue Community Center, 4–6 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 20, South Bellevue Community Center, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 27, City Hall, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Virtual Community Meeting
Thursday, June 11
6–7 p.m.
Microsoft Teams meeting
Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/281235242348749?p=YgVUHvS3mOVmWljM3h
Meeting ID: 281 235 242 348 749
Passcode: qe2tM3ht
Community feedback plays an important role in shaping Utilities’ budget and rates, helping ensure investments reflect community priorities, affordability considerations and long-term system reliability.
For more information about Bellevue Utilities and upcoming engagement opportunities, visit Utilities Budget and Rates.
Avoid the shock of a costly water leak
Bellevue Utilities now offers near real-time leak alerts through our online customer portal. These alerts can help you catch leaks early, before they lead to unexpectedly high water bills or property damage.
By registering for the online portal, you can
- Receive leak alerts when continuous water use is detected
- Monitor your daily and hourly water usage to better understand your consumption
- Update your contact information so alerts reach you quickly
- Set your billing and communication preferences, including paperless billing
Why this matters
Many leaks go unnoticed until the bill arrives. With near real-time alerts, you can take action sooner and potentially avoid significant costs.
Get started today in the online portal
It only takes a few minutes: BellevueWa.gov/utilities-billing.
Construction closes portion of Lake Hills Blvd for two months
Construction on Lake Hills Boulevard to replace an aging culvert at Kelsey Creek began in April with intermittent lane closures followed by a full two-month closure starting in early June.
What to expect
Travelers should plan ahead and expect travel delays.
April-May: Intermittent lane closures on Lake Hills Boulevard between 151st and 154th avenues Southeast, with flaggers directing traffic through the work zone during active construction.
June-July: Full closure on Lake Hills Boulevard between 151st and 154th avenues Southeast for approximately two months. Clearly marked detour routes will be in place.
This work is part of a larger effort to replace aging infrastructure and reduce long-term flood risk in the area. For updates, schedules and detour maps, visit BellevueWa.gov/kelsey-creek-culvert.
Planning for future solid waste services
Bellevue is planning now for the next solid waste contract, which will begin in 2028. Solid waste services include your recycling, composting, and garbage collection. Planning for the next contract ensures the city continues to deliver reliable, affordable, and environmentally responsible services.
The next contract will focus on four key service objectives:
- Alignment with best practices locally and nationally.
- Responsive to community needs concerning reliable service, affordable rates, and a modern, user-friendly customer experience.
- Compliance with state laws and local policy, including new requirements to reduce organic waste, improve recycling systems, and ensure responsible processing of materials.
- Leverage technology and data opportunities that include cleaner vehicle options, improved real-time service tracking, enhanced customer tools, and the potential use of artificial intelligence to improve operations and education.
Stay Involved
Your voice matters. Community feedback helps shape how services are delivered today and in the future. For up-to-date information, visit BellevueWa.gov/future-solid-waste.
Thank you for sharing your voice
Thank you to everyone who took a few minutes to complete the Bellevue Utilities survey.
Utility services are an essential part of everyday life, from filling a glass of water to flood prevention and managing waste. Your feedback helps us better understand how we are serving you.
Your input will help guide priorities, improve customer service, and ensure Bellevue Utilities continues to meet the needs of our growing community.
Next: We are analyzing the survey results and will post key takeaways here on Utilities News in June.
Share your feedback about Bellevue Utilities by April 30
Utility services are an essential part of everyday life in Bellevue. Whether you are filling a glass of water, watching rain flow down the street, or taking out the trash, Bellevue Utilities is often working behind the scenes
Now is your opportunity to share your feedback through a quick three-minute online survey at bit.ly/Bellevue-Utilities-Survey.
This is your opportunity to speak up about what is working well and what could be better. Your input helps guide priorities, improve customer service, and ensure Bellevue Utilities continues to meet the needs of our growing community.
Construction begins this Spring on the Kelsey Creek Culvert with traffic impacts on Lake Hills Boulevard
What you should know
Construction start: Late April 2026
Location: Lake Hills Boulevard between 151st Ave SE and 154th Ave SE
Traffic Impacts: Intermittent lane closures followed by a 60-day full road closure.
Why this project matters
The existing culvert under Lake Hills Boulevard is undersized and has shown signs of instability in recent years, contributing to drainage issues and flooding concerns in the area. In addition to the culvert replacement, the project will address nearby aging sewer and water infrastructure to improve system reliability and long-term performance.
This comprehensive approach helps ensure residents benefit from improved infrastructure and reduced maintenance issues for decades to come.
Traffic impacts and schedules
To complete this work safely and efficiently, portions of Lake Hills Boulevard between 151st Ave SE and 154th Ave SE will be impacted. Please plan for travel delays and follow city traffic advisories at BellevueWA.gov/traffic-advisories.
Lane closures
Starting late April: Expect periodic lane closures. Flaggers and signs will help guide traffic through lane restrictions during work hours.
Full road closure
Approximately June 5-July 25: There will be a full closure of Lake Hills Boulevard between 151st Ave SE and 154th Ave SE for approximately 60 days during the peak of construction. This closure will allow crews to complete the most intensive work safely and quickly. Detour routes will be clearly marked.
Stay informed
Additional updates, detour maps, and construction notices will be shared on the project webpage at BellevueWA.gov/kelsey-creek-culvert.
Stay Informed on Bellevue Utilities Projects
Bellevue Utilities is investing in the future of our community by planning, designing, and building essential utilities infrastructure, from water and wastewater systems to stormwater improvements and environmental protections for our waterways. These projects support safe drinking water, reliable wastewater disposal, flood prevention, and healthy local streams and wetlands that benefit people, wildlife, and the environment.
Whether it’s replacing aging pipes, improving system capacity, or planning for future growth, these efforts ensure Bellevue’s utilities continue to meet the needs of residents and businesses now and for years to come.
How to stay informed
Bellevue Utilities has online project pages to share updates, project details, and opportunities to give feedback. Visit BellevueWA.gov/utilities-projects to view a list of individual projects and contact details. Signing up for notifications or checking the website regularly helps you stay current on system plans, construction timelines, potential service impact, and community engagement events.
Staying informed also makes it easier to understand how utility investments are funded and how they help maintain the quality of life in our city.
Give your home a fresh eco-smart start to spring
Bellevue Utilities is excited to offer seven free “Fresh Start” Eco-Smart classes designed to help residents declutter, clean smarter, and repair instead of replace.
Led by a local sustainability expert, these practical and approachable classes will share easy tips, tools, and inspiration for clearing out the old and welcoming the new, without harsh chemicals or unnecessary waste.
Classes are offered both in person at Bellevue King County Library System branches and online.
View the full schedule and register at BellevueWA.gov/greener-living.
Easier Access to Utility Bill Assistance during Financial Hardship
Bellevue Utilities offers long-term and short-term assistance to support utility customers who need help paying their bill. The Utility Bill Assistance program has introduced a new streamlined application process to make it easier for residents to apply for support. The updated paper application has fewer pages and requires less personal information, reducing the time and effort needed to complete. The new online portal offers a one-stop resource for applying and managing documents. This simplified approach is designed to remove barriers, increase access to assistance, and ensure that more people in need can get help managing their utility bills when experiencing financial challenges.
Long-Term Bill Assistance
Bellevue Utilities offers 70 percent off basic utility costs to low-income seniors (62 and older) and community members with permanent disabilities who meet specific income guidelines. The type of assistance available depends on how your utility bill is paid.
- Utility Bill Discount: If you pay a Bellevue utility bill, you may qualify for a discount or rate reduction on your 2026 utility bills. This program is accepting applications through Oct. 31.
- Utility Bill Rebate: If your utility costs are paid through rent or another third party, you may qualify for a rebate check on 2025 utility costs. This program is accepting applications through Oct. 31.
Short-Term Bill Assistance
Bellevue Utilities offers two short-term assistance programs for residents who may not qualify for long-term assistance.
- Emergency Assistance: Community members experiencing a one-time financial shock that interferes with the ability to cover expenses may qualify for a 100% discount on basic utility services for up to four months (two bills).
- Neighbors Helping Neighbors: This program supports residents who meet specific low-income requirements and have a past-due utility bill.
For More Information and Guidelines
Visit BellevueWA.gov/utility-bill-assistance or call 425-452-5285.
Donate to Neighbors Helping Neighbors
In every community, there are times when a neighbor may face unexpected financial challenges. Neighbors Helping Neighbors is a community donation program designed to provide support to low-income residents who are unable to pay for essential utility services.
Every donation to Neighbors Helping Neighbors makes a difference. No donation is too small. Whether it is a one-time or a recurring donation, your generosity provides direct financial assistance to a community member in need.
Learn more about Neighbors Helping Neighbors and make a donation at BellevueWA.gov/utility-bill-assistance.
Planning for the future of essential utility services
When we pay a utility bill, we are supporting the capital projects that provide and deliver essential utility services to the Bellevue community now and for generations to come. Bellevue Utilities Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) prioritizes projects that deliver Bellevue’s essential drinking water, wastewater, stormwater and surface water services. This includes the replacement of aging pipes and pumps, as well as the construction of new reservoirs to support Bellevue’s growing population and environmental needs.
What do utility rates support?
- Delivery of safe and reliable drinking water to homes and businesses. Bellevue Utilities maintains more than 600 miles of water mains and 24 reservoirs with a storage capacity of over 40 million gallons.
- Stormwater and surface water management to prevent flooding and polluted waterways. Bellevue Utilities protects over 80 miles of open streams and more than 800 acres of protected wetlands.
- Safe disposal of wastewater. Bellevue Utilities safely sends all the water that leaves the inside of your property through sinks, toilets, and washing machines to King County treatment facilities using more than 500 miles of sewer mains.
Why are capital investments important?
Capital investments ensure critical infrastructure keeps pace with Bellevue’s growth, protects public health and the environment, and reduces the risk of costly emergencies by addressing needs before failures occur. By investing today, Bellevue Utilities is safeguarding essential services, supporting a high quality of life, and ensuring future generations can count on clean water, effective wastewater treatment, and well-managed stormwater.