State Ave and Franklin Street to close starting this Wednesday

Construction will close six blocks of State Avenue in downtown Olympia as well as its Franklin Street intersection starting this Wednesday, April 20.

State Avenue from Washington Street NE to Plum Street SE while Franklin Street from Olympia Avenue NE to 4^th Avenue W will be closed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for up to four weeks, according to the city.

“Full intersection closures allow crews to safely complete work in the street and help mitigate longer term traffic and parking impacts,” the city explained in its statement.

Motorists are advised to follow the detour routes indicated in the graphic to minimize the construction’s effects on nearby traffic and parking.

The project will include the following components, all of which are set to be completed during the closure:

• Traffic signal installation
• Sidewalk restoration (curb and gutter preparation and pouring)
• Roadway restoration (demolition, grading, and concrete pouring)
• Sandblasting between 5th and State Avenues (this is the last step in completing sidewalk work)

The city also announced in its press release plans to close off the block between Legion Way and 5^th Avenue early May to complete final paving on those roads. Part of the Franklin Street Project includes State Avenue and Legion Way, the City is aiming to improve that intersection with the following features:

• New sidewalks
• Curb bulb outs at intersections
• Decorative pedestrian and street lighting
• A new concrete street surface
• New street trees and planters
• Public art
• Bike racks

Questions about the project can be directed to the Franklin Street Improvement Outreach Team 360-216-7720 or FranklinStreet@ci.olympia.wa.us