Published April 17 2013
Ready for the future? The City of Bellevue is preparing for it now with dozens of new projects -- and planning initiatives. City officials want to share what they're working on and hear what the community thinks at a one-stop open house on Wednesday, April 24.
Spring Forward Expo takes place from 4-7 p.m. at City Hall, 450 110th Ave. NE. It's designed to be both convenient and informative for the public. Attendees can learn about a wide range of projects through displays, maps and by talking with the project managers responsible for the work. It's also a chance to visit with city councilmembers attending the event, in a relaxed, informal setting.
A video on the city's YouTube channel also offers a peak at a few of the projects at the Expo.
"Now is a good time for the Expo and an update on city projects," said Mayor Conrad Lee. "After a period of slower growth during the economic downturn, Bellevue is moving ahead with key projects and planning initiatives that will help shape the way our city looks and functions for years to come. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity."
With 70-plus projects, the Expo will offer plenty of variety. Here's a sample:
- Transportation enhancements: More than two dozen projects will be featured, such as congestion relief work on 120th Avenue Northeast, a new road in the Bel-Red area, work related to the future East Link light rail route, improvements for pedestrians and bicyclists, and upgrades to traffic signals and street lighting.
- Parks improvements: Featured projects include construction of a new Bellevue Botanical Garden Visitor Center and a new Bellevue Youth Theatre building, plans for Inspiration Playground at Downtown Park, and designs for Bellevue Airfield Park.
- Planning initiatives: Several key initiatives are underway and planners are eager to hear from residents on topics such as an update to the city's Comprehensive Plan, planning for the areas around future light rail stations; a Downtown Livability Initiative; and a Downtown Transportation Plan update.
- Utilities work: Work includes a new bridge over Coal Creek to replace an aging culvert, flood control work, stream projects to improve habitat and fish passage, water system upgrades, stormwater system improvements, and new sewer lines and pumps.
- Regional projects: Staff from Sound Transit will be on hand to discuss the East Link light rail project; and state Department of Transportation employees will be available to discuss the latest work on Interstate 405, I-90 and SR 520.
City Hall parking is available on a first-come-first-served basis. A visitors lot can be accessed from 110th Avenue Northeast. Additional parking will be available after 3:45 p.m. in the staff parking garage, accessed from Northeast Sixth Street. Also, public transportation is convenient, with the Bellevue Transit Center located across the street from City Hall.