SE Blvd., Sherman work in May

Reconstruction work is expected to begin in May on a pair of arterials that provide key access between downtown and the southeast portions of Spokane’s South Hill.

Southeast Boulevard and Sherman Street will undergo curb-to-curb excavation and restoration with installation of a new gravel roadbed and asphalt pavement.

The project will run from Third Avenue and Sherman to Sherman’s connection with Southeast Boulevard at 10th Avenue and then extend southeastward on Southeast Boulevard to Perry Street. The length totals 1.4 miles.

The project is part of a $117 million 10-year street improvement bond issue approved by voters in 2004.

City engineering staff has estimated the Southeast Boulevard and Sherman Street work will cost $2 million to $2.2 million.

Plans call for maintaining local access for residents and businesses along the route. During work on Southeast Boulevard, traffic will be limited to local access.

Workers may need to close three or four individual blocks during working hours as the project moves along. Residents and businesses will be notified in advance, said Ann Deasy-Nolan, information coordinator for street bond projects.

Detour routes will be designated on Third and Fifth avenues as well as on Arthur and Perry streets.

Parking will be eliminated along Southeast Boulevard during construction, which is expected to last more than three months.