Hilltop Tacoma Link construction to close intersection of North Tacoma Avenue and North 1st Street

The Hilltop Tacoma Link project is planning to completely close the intersection of North Tacoma Avenue and North 1st Street beginning Wednesday, January 22 in order to install two sets of tracks through the intersection. Closing the intersection reduces the space needed for construction, keeps more parking open for local businesses and enables crews to complete the work in a shorter amount of time. 

Track installation includes removing existing asphalt, grading, moving the rail segments into place and pouring concrete around the rail. Crews will also be installing new ADA ramps, crosswalks and curb and gutter. 

Large trucks (longer than 30 feet) should avoid traveling on Stadium Way and use other routes, such as I-705 to 9th Street and Tacoma Avenue. Another option is to drive smaller trucks on Stadium Way and turn off at Division Avenue.  

Parking will be unavailable in the intersection during construction. Sidewalks will be open. Pedestrians are encouraged to use temporary crosswalks and follow flagger’s directions. Detour routes are on North 2nd Avenue, Yakima Avenue and Division Avenue. All businesses in the area will be open. To learn more about Hilltop and Stadium businesses that are open during construction, visit https://www.soundtransit.org/system-expansion/building-system/loyal-to-local/hilltop

Residents can expect construction noise due to the use of heavy equipment.  Crews will be working Sunday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. The intersection closure is expected to last for about three weeks. 

For more information on the Hilltop Link Extension and to sign up for project updates visit www.soundtransit.org/htlink