BALLARD — Public Works officials have confirmed the large-scale project north of Market on 24th has officially been delayed until fall 2028. Despite growing frustration from Ballardites, officials have defended the timeline.
“Listen, we completely understand the frustration,” said Larry Chambers, Head of Roadway Planning. “With that being said… I think most people would understand the delay if they got to drive the excavator.”
The massive construction project has also had serious impacts on local businesses.
“It’s hard sitting inside a business all day staring out the door at cones and trucks,” said local business owner Ted Barnsworth. “I mean, imagine putting your life savings into something and then having to watch people play on super-duper cool machines all day. It’s like, why can’t I be the one playing on those?”
Chambers said the city remains committed to completing the project, but noted that crews are currently in what he called “a very important digging phase.”
“Some people think roadwork is just about roads,” Chambers said. “But sometimes it’s about seeing how big of a hole you can make before someone from the city asks if it’s necessary.”
Reports suggest the project may face an additional six-month delay after one crew member discovered the excavator could pick up a single traffic cone and place it gently on top of another traffic cone.
