Construction continues along key sections of the Eastrail in Kirkland, with several active projects aimed at improving connections and safety. Here’s what to expect along the trail this fall:

Short-Term Closure Near South Kirkland Park and Ride

At the south end of Kirkland, near the Park and Ride, a short-term full trail closure was in place to support King County’s Eastside Interceptor repair project. The full closure should now be completed.

Moving forward, the trail will remain partially closed for about a month, with a narrow pathway open for users—so a detour should not be necessary.
Learn more on the City of Kirkland’s project page.

NE 85th Street Overpass Construction

Further north, the trail is fully closed at NE 85th Street for construction related to the new overpass connections. This closure is expected to continue through next spring.

Two detour routes are available:

• ADA-accessible route: Less steep and suitable for all users.
• Alternate route: Shorter but includes two steep hills.

You can find detour maps and project details on the City of Kirkland’s website.

Slater Avenue Crossing Improvements

East of Totem Lake, construction continues on a new crossing at Slater Avenue. The crosswalk is mostly complete, but installation of the traffic signal has been delayed due to material availability. This closure is now expected to last through early 2026.

A short detour is available via the crosswalk at 124th Avenue NE.
Learn more about the project here.

Avoiding Out-and-Back Detours

Trail users have noted that traveling between the two major closure areas in Kirkland can involve quite a bit of climbing, as the official detour routes connect to the trail at different elevations.

For those continuing through Kirkland, an alternative detour route connects the two official detours and helps minimize extra climbing and backtracking. This option may be more comfortable for riders or walkers looking to maintain a steady route through the city.