Extension, other work planned on Northeast Vancouver Mall Drive

Drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians are urged to be alert to construction and prepare for possible lane closures and travel delays during a city of Vancouver project to improve Northeast Vancouver Mall Drive, from Northeast 72nd Avenue to west of Andresen Road.

When finished, the road extension will better connect a residential area west of Andresen with businesses along Andresen and at Vancouver Mall.

The project, scheduled to begin Monday, will extend Northeast Vancouver Mall Drive to Northeast 66th Avenue, a distance of approximately three blocks. The land, largely forested, is currently undeveloped.

The 1.46-acre site was annexed to the city in February.

Work includes adding a dedicated right-turn lane from Vancouver Mall Drive onto Northeast Andresen Road and signal system improvements at the Northeast Andresen Road intersection, according to a city news release. In addition, crews will be installing a new C-Tran bus pullout near this intersection and constructing sidewalk and curb ramps between Northeast 72nd Avenue and Northeast Andresen Road. The improvements will meet the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Tapani Underground of Battle Ground is the city’s contractor for this project, which is expected to be completed in early October.

In general, construction hours are from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. However, construction may continue as late as 8 p.m. and could take place on weekends, if needed. The city is urging people to be alert to construction work and be prepared for lane closures and possible travel delays.

The $1.58 million project is funded by local traffic impact fees and fees assessed to property developers, according to the city’s website.