Construction Begins on 5 Million Festival Street Near Puyallup Fairgrounds

Puyallup has initiated a $5 million project to construct a festival street along Ninth Avenue Southwest, enhancing access to the Washington State Fairgrounds. The construction, which has temporarily closed the road between Meridian and Fifth Street Southwest, is set to conclude by September 2025, aligning with the fair's 125th anniversary. City spokesperson Eric Johnson emphasized that the street will serve dual purposes: functioning as a normal roadway during the day and transforming into a pedestrian-friendly space during events. Safety improvements are a priority, with traffic calming features designed to slow down vehicles and enhance pedestrian safety. The Washington State Fair has significantly supported the project, contributing $1 million and land for sidewalk development, highlighting a cooperative relationship with the city.

This initiative follows a trend of urban enhancements aimed at fostering community engagement and improving local infrastructure. Moreover, the city plans to replicate this festival street concept on East Meeker in the coming years, indicating a long-term commitment to enhancing public spaces. As Puyallup prepares for the upcoming fair, these developments promise to enrich community life and support local events.