The City of Yakima is continuing its commitment to improving infrastructure with Phase 3 of the North 1st Street Revitalization Project now in progress. This phase, focusing on N 1st Street from Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to I Street, is a crucial step in enhancing safety and boosting economic potential in one of Yakima’s main corridors. Completion is anticipated by June 2025.
Traffic Shift at N 1st Street and I Street Intersection
Motorists should be aware of a significant traffic shift that began on January 22, 2025, at the intersection of N 1st Street and I Street. Traffic has been rerouted from the east side to the west side of the intersection. Due to the time of year, gravel roads are temporarily in use, requiring drivers to exercise extra caution.
Traffic shift area at N 1st Street and I Street intersection in Yakima, Washington
This traffic pattern shift affects I Street from H Street to J Street, with both north and southbound traffic being closed on I Street within this segment. Detour routes are clearly marked to guide drivers. Truck traffic is directed to continue utilizing the D Street detour route to minimize disruption. Importantly, businesses along N 1st Street remain accessible throughout Phase 3 construction.
Phase 3 project area map highlighting N 1st Street revitalization in Yakima, Washington
Yakima Transit Detours Remain in Effect
Yakima Transit routes are also subject to detours as a result of Phase 3 construction. These detours will remain in place until Phase 3 is completed in June 2025. Passengers are advised to check the Yakima Transit website or contact Yakima Transit directly for the most up-to-date information on route adjustments.
Yakima Transit detour map for Phase 3 of the N 1st Street Revitalization project
Project Funding and Previous Phases
Phase 3 of the N 1st Street Revitalization Project represents a substantial investment of approximately $11.7 million in Yakima’s infrastructure. A significant portion of the funding, around $9.8 million, comes from federal programs including the National Highway Freight Program (NHFP), the National Highway Performance Program (NHPP), and the Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG). The project also benefits from $1.5 million in funding from the Washington State Transportation Improvement Board. The remaining costs are covered through a combination of Transportation Benefit District funds, generated from a $20 annual car tab fee approved by the Yakima City Council in 2018, and local utilities.
Map outlining the project area for Phase 3 of the North 1st Street Revitalization project in Yakima
Phases 1 and 2 of the North 1st Street Revitalization Project have already been successfully completed. Phase 2, costing approximately $2.6 million and funded through water, sewer, stormwater funds, and car tab fees, was approved by the Yakima City Council on May 2, 2023. Phase 1, completed in December 2019, focused on improvements from Highway 12 to N Street and cost around $3.3 million, primarily funded through federal and state sources.
Timeline of all three phases of the N 1st Street Revitalization project in Yakima
Enhancing Safety and Economic Development
The overarching goal of the North 1st Street Revitalization Project is to create a safer environment for both drivers and pedestrians. Furthermore, the project aims to stimulate economic development along the North 1st Street corridor, a vital gateway to the city. Randy Beehler, Communications & Public Affairs Director for the City of Yakima, emphasizes the project’s importance, stating, “The North 1st Street Revitalization Project is intended to improve safety for drivers and pedestrians and to increase the economic development potential of the North 1st Street corridor, one of the city’s main entrances.” He also expressed gratitude to the community, “We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding during Phase 3 of this vital project.”
Conceptual rendering of completed improvements on N 1st Street in Yakima
Stay Informed on Project Progress
For further details about the North 1st Street Revitalization project, please contact Utility Project Manager Dana Kallevig at 509-249-6813. The City of Yakima is committed to keeping the community informed about the progress of Phase 3 through regular updates on the City website, City social media channels, news releases, and Y-PAC programming. Access to businesses on N 1st Street will be maintained throughout Phase 3 construction, ensuring minimal disruption to the local economy.
