Published September 23 2015
Also, I-405 tolling begins next week and update on the Eastside Rail Corridor
On Monday the City Council unanimously approved a $1.5 million agreement to partially fund the Boys & Girls Club of Bellevue's new main clubhouse facility. In exchange, Bellevue will receive space for a number of popular city-sponsored programs during school hours to meet an ongoing demand for older adult activities in the downtown area. Spaces available include the gymnasium, arts and crafts classroom, and the education and technology centers.
The project is expected to be completed by September of next year. Funds for the agreement and other partnership projects were allocated in the 2015-16 budget. The brand new clubhouse will be located at 209 100th Ave. NE and will cost $11 million.
The BGCB, founded in 1952, serves more than 11,500 registered young people each year. The organization operates 12 sites throughout Bellevue.
I-405 toll lanes begin Sunday
During the council's study session, councilmembers were briefed by officials from the state Department of Transportation about the new Interstate 405 Express Toll Lanes, which will go live Sunday. The new toll lanes will stretch from Bellevue to Lynnwood and offer commuters another option to avoid congestion.
As noted by councilmembers during the question and answer period, the previously issued "Good To Go!" passes commonly used to cross the state Route 520 bridge, will work in the toll lanes. However, to avoid paying a toll when carpooling, the Flex Pass is required to declare high-occupancy vehicle status.
To learn more about the new lanes or to purchase the new HOV pass, visit www.GoodToGo405.org.
Update on the Eastside Rail Corridor
The council received a status report on the Eastside Rail Corridor on Monday night. The city is currently collaborating with King County and Sound Transit, both of whom own the Bellevue portion of the regional corridor, to develop a master plan for a paved trail as well as potential interim improvements. The council set aside $1 million in its 2015-2016 capital budget for Eastside Rail Corridor initiatives.