NE Big Rock Road Overlay Project

Project location map

Travelers can expect lane reductions on NE Big Rock Road through October 30, 2026, while crews pave sections of the roadway.

What is paving overlay?

An overlay, also known as a topcoat or resurfacing, is a process where a new layer of asphalt is applied in the same location as an existing paved surface. This technique is typically used when the existing pavement has minor damage like cracking or potholes, but the underlying base is still structurally sound.

Paving overlay process:

• Crews use machines to grind and remove over two inches of existing pavement. This creates a clean and uniform surface at the proper depth for the new pavement.
• The roadway is cleaned of loose debris, dirt, and any other loose or damaged materials to make sure the surface of the road is prepped for the new top layer.
• Repairs are made to any problems in the subsurface of the road.
• A thin layer of bonding agent, called tack coat, is applied to the prepared surface to create a strong adhesive bond between the old and new layers of asphalt.
• Specialized equipment spreads the new hot-mix asphalt over the tack-coated surface.
• Rollers are used to compact the newly laid asphalt to keep the surface of the road smooth, durable, and uniform.
• Once the new asphalt has cooled and set, crews will install temporary traffic markings and lane striping.
• Permanent traffic markings and lane striping will be installed approximately three weeks after paving, once the new road surface has had time to cure. This work is weather-dependent and may be delayed.

What to expect during construction:

Paving is a moving operation. During work hours, flaggers direct two-way traffic through a single open lane. Travelers, including drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians, should expect delays of up to 20 minutes.

• Noise, dust, smells, and vibrations during work.
• Access to business and homes is maintained, though delays are likely. 
• Paving is scheduled between 7 am and 6 pm Monday to Friday, with some evening and weekend work if needed.
• Road Services coordinated with the Riverview School District, emergency services, US Mail, garbage/recycling companies, and freight to inform them of the work.

Project budget

The total budget including design, construction, and construction management for this project is $2.2 million and is funded through the Puget Sound Regional Council and King County local fund.

Project timeline

• Design complete: Summer 2025
• Construction began: September 21, 2026
• Construction complete: October 30, 2026 (anticipated)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average daily traffic on NE Big Rock Road?

On average, 3,100 vehicles travel on NE Big Rock Road each day. 

Can I travel on NE Big Rock Road during paving?

Yes. Please expect delays of up to 20 minutes as flaggers move alternating two-way traffic through a single open lane. 

Do emergency services, Snoqualmie Valley Transit (SVT), and school buses have access to the road during construction?

Yes. All vehicles will have access to NE Big Rock Road during paving. Flaggers will prioritize Snoqualmie Valley Transportation, school buses, and emergency vehicles, though there will be delays. 

How did the County coordinate road work on NE Cherry Valley Road and NE Big Rock Road?

On July 6, 2026, crews performing routine paving work on NE Cherry Valley Road, west of Bevan Lane, discovered an underground drainage pipe that required emergency replacement. To protect the stability of the road and ensure community safety, NE Cherry Valley Road was temporarily closed so repairs could begin immediately.

As of July 13, 2026, repairs at NE Cherry Valley Road were completed and the road reopened to traffic.