North Creek Bridge Restoration

Project Overview

The City is beginning essential structural repairs to the 164th St SE Bridge over North Creek (Mill Creek No. 1 Bridge) after a recent engineering evaluation identified one of seven support columns on the south side of the street as being in poor condition.

The traffic changes will begin Friday, October 23, with restoration work starting once the repair design is finalized. This project will provide critical reinforcement to ensure the continued safety, stability, and reliability of this major transportation corridor.

While this work addresses the bridge’s immediate needs, the City will also conduct a comprehensive study to determine long term solutions to guide future improvements and address increased traffic volume.

Traffic Impacts

To safely accommodate construction crews and equipment, temporary traffic adjustments will be in place through mid December 2026. Traffic patterns may be modified as the project moves from planning into the construction phase.

Eastbound Lanes Shift: Eastbound traffic on 164th St SE near North Creek Presbyterian Church will shift. The far-right lane nearest the sidewalk will be closed, and vehicles will use the left lane and center turn lane to maintain vehicle flow through the work zone. View a detailed map on the City’s website, link below.

Drivers should expect delays, follow posted signage, and, when possible, plan alternate routes.

View the full traffic impact map here

History

The 164th St SE bridge serves as a major east-west arterial crossing over North Creek.

The existing structure is a 28-foot single span bridge made up of two components: the original 59-foot-wide bridge constructed in 1967, and a 16-foot southern widening added in 1989. A repair project in 2012 replaced a 13-foot section of the original timber pile cap near the southwest corner.

To evaluate ongoing maintenance needs and structural integrity, the City of Mill Creek retained engineering consultant Otak, who conducted a physical field inspection of the bridge.

Project Goals

Address Urgent Structural Deficiencies

Immediately execute necessary structural repairs on the Mill Creek No. 1 bridge following its inspection rating.

Ensure Public & Worker Safety

Implement temporary lane shifts and turn restrictions to maintain safe travel through the corridor during construction.

Restore Long-Term Integrity

Complete required rehabilitation work efficiently to restore full capacity and extend the service life of the crossing.