Thursday, October 1, 2026
A $4.2 million road improvement project is about to get underway in the City of Tumwater.
Construction on the city's 2nd Avenue Pedestrian & Bicylce Improvements Project is scheduled to start on Tuesday, Jan. 20. The work is going to take palce from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, with an anticpated completion date in fall.
"For the first several weeks, the work will focus on roadway resurfacing, stormwater improvements, updates to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) sidewalk ramps, select sidewalk replacements, permanent signage, and pavement markings," said the City of Tumwater in announcing the start of the project.
"During working hours, lane restrictions will reduce travel to single lane alternating traffic. On-street parking may be prohibited in some areas. Traffic control and flaggers will be in place to assist motorists through the work zone. Access for local residents and businesses will be maintained whenever possible, though some delays may occur."
As part of the project, construction of a roundabout at 2nd Avenue and Linwood Avenue is scheduled to start in April.
"While the roundabout is under construction, the intersection of 2nd and Linwood will be completely closed. Signed detour routes will be in place to direct motorists around the closure," said the City of Tumwater in a project description.
"Access for local residents, emergency vehicles, and nearby businesses will be maintained whenever possible, though some delays may occur. We encourage drivers to plan alternate routes, allow extra travel time, and exercise caution when traveling near the construction zone."
The project is being paid for by multiple sources, including a $2.1 million grant from the Washington State Department of Transportation's Safe Routes to School Program. Other funding sources include the Tumwater Transportation Benefit District and private development fees.
All scheduled roadwork is subect to change because of weather, equipment and project delays. For more information about the project call 360-252-5408.
6 comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here
JulesJames
I'm baffled by "Pedestrians & Bikes" put together like a unified interest group. Then I realize there is no other way to justify the ridiculous amount spent on bike lanes without implying pedestrians will also benefit.
Monday, January 19 Report this
Southsoundguy
Waste, fraud, and abuse.
Tuesday, January 20 Report this
BillSpencer
I'm glad they are finally fixing up this road. The pavement has been in horrible condition for some time now, and there are missing sidewalks. The roundabout at Linwood and 2nd is a massive improvement. I am looking forward to no longer having to deal with apparently licensed drivers that don't know how a four way stop works. Also, LMFAO Southsoundguy, you a big fan of Elon Musk buddy?
Tuesday, January 20 Report this
KarenM
Southsoundguy - Please cite any evidence you have for this project being 'waste fraud and abuse.'
Making a street safer for everyone doesn't look like that. It looks like the city is doing their job of maintaining streets. I appreciate that Tumwater is adding safety improvements for people who walk and cycle.
And JulesJames - people who walk and cycle are not necessarily one 'interest group' - they could be anyone including people who cannot drive for any number of reasons. Or perhaps they are not old enough to drive. Making it safe for everyone doesn't hurt those who drive.
Tuesday, January 20 Report this
DanielFarber
I will also note that the now completed roundabouts at Trosper and Capitol Way are not only improvements to traffic safety, but have significantly improved traffic flow, pedestrian and bike safety. They are even pretty! A win win win and win.
Wednesday, January 21 Report this
Annierae
Same tired kneejerk whine from the same pathetic commenters: "it's wasteful." Public safety spending is wise investment. Improvements mean increased property values, improved quality of life and reduced injury and mortality. Why don't you try doing something useful for your community instead of just whining from the shadows like a bunch of loser trolls.
Wednesday, January 21 Report this