Published October 12 2023
Drivers traveling Lakemont Boulevard in south Bellevue will encounter a detour starting as early as Tuesday, Oct. 24. The street is expected to be closed for eight months between Forest Drive and 155th Avenue for emergency construction of a bridge over Coal Creek.
The detour will direct drivers along Forest Drive Southeast to Coal Creek Parkway, then connect to Newcastle Golf Club Road.
The City of Bellevue declared an emergency earlier this year to address public safety and environmental hazards caused by a failed culvert where Lakemont Boulevard crosses Coal Creek. The culvert can no longer ensure adequate flood protection or road stability due to erosion and aging infrastructure. The city is building a bridge to secure the stability of Lakemont Boulevard at the location of the culvert. In the meantime, the city is monitoring the stability of the road daily.
“We understand the impact this closure will have on drivers traveling Lakemont Boulevard and appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as we work diligently on this accelerated emergency project,” said Lucy Liu, director of Bellevue Utilities. “Public safety is our top priority, and it’s imperative this work is done to ensure the ongoing stability of the roadway.”
The latest project updates and a detour map are available at Lakemont Boulevard Culvert.