Washington Stevens Corridor Improvements 2024

Project Number: 2022065, 2021088, 2019187

Status: Complete

Construction Estimate: $9.7 million (all three phases)

Contractor: Inland Asphalt Company (N Washington St); Hamilton Construction Co. (Bridge)

Project Description

The Washington Stevens Corridor upgrades consist of three key projects aimed at enhancing the infrastructure and longevity of the roads and bridges in this area.

2022065 – N Washington St Grind & Overlay (Maxwell Ave to River)

Construction Start Date: July 2024

Completion Date: October 2024

This project involves grinding and overlaying the section of North Washington Street from West Maxwell Avenue to the Spokane River and also includes:

  • Replacement where necessary of curb (wheelchair) ramp to bring them into ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and minor amounts of sidewalk replacement.
  • Traffic signal and other intersection upgrades.
  • Minor upgrades and improvements to stormwater & drainage structures, and sewer systems.

2021088 – Washington-Stevens Bridge Deck and Joint Repair

Construction Start Date: June 2024

Completion Date: October 2024

This project focuses on the restoration of three bridges:

  1. Stevens St. South Channel Bridge
  2. Washington St. South Channel Bridge
  3. Washington St. North Channel Bridge

and includes:

  • Full deck survey and evaluation of surface deficiencies.
  • Replacement of expansion joints.
  • Removal of existing asphalt/membrane and repair of deteriorated areas.
  • Application of a new durable concrete overlay.

2019187 – Washington-Stevens Grind & Overlay (3rd to Spokane Falls)

Construction Start Date: May 2025

Completion Date: August 2025

This project involves grinding and overlaying Washington St and Stevens St from Spokane Falls Blvd to 3rd Ave and includes:

  • Replacement where necessary of curb (wheelchair) ramp to bring them into ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and minor amounts of sidewalk replacement.
  • Minor upgrades and improvements to stormwater & drainage structures, and sewer systems
  • Raising and replacing surface structures.
  • New striping to create additional street parking.

Educational Resources

Grind and Overlay Process

Grind and Overlay, also known as milling and resurfacing, is a four-step process widely used in road rehabilitation for its cost-effectiveness and minimal disruption compared to complete reconstruction. This method focuses on targeted repairs and improvements without extensive excavation or full roadway replacement.

Removal or Lowering of Structures: Manholes, stormwater, and sewer surface structures (i.e., the structure’s cast iron lid) are removed or lowered to protect them from damage during the grinding process.

Milling: The top layer of the existing asphalt is ground down or milled to remove damaged or worn-out material. This milling process creates a smooth, even surface that provides a solid foundation for the new asphalt layer.

Raising and Replacing Structures: Surface structures (i.e., the structure’s cast iron lid) that were removed or lowered in the first step are raised and replaced to ensure they are aligned with the new road surface.

Asphalt Overlay: A new layer of asphalt is applied over the milled surface, effectively overlaying the old pavement. This new asphalt layer restores the road's structural integrity, improves its appearance, and enhances durability. By sealing off cracks and imperfections, the overlay provides a smooth, safe driving surface capable of withstanding traffic and weather conditions.

The Grind and Overlay method is favored for its ability to efficiently extend the lifespan of existing roadways while maintaining safety and aesthetics.

Bridge Deck Restoration Process

Bridge deck restoration involves a series of targeted steps to ensure the structural integrity and longevity of bridges. This project includes the following phases:

Deck Survey: Conducting a comprehensive survey of the traffic lanes to identify surface deficiencies.

Expansion Joint Evaluation and Replacement: Assessing and replacing the expansion joints to ensure they function properly and maintain the bridge's structural integrity.

Removal of Existing Asphalt/Membrane: Removing the old asphalt and membrane layers to expose the top slab of the box girders for necessary repairs.

Repair of Deteriorated Areas: Fixing any damaged or deteriorated areas on the top slab of the box girders to restore structural integrity.

Concrete Overlay Application: Applying a new, durable concrete overlay system to provide a strong, long-lasting surface.

Recessed Expansion Joint System: Installing a new recessed expansion joint system that requires minimal maintenance, ensuring long-term durability with reduced upkeep.