Update (October 23, 2025) Newton Street Project Update

Construction on the Newton Street project is moving along with progress on the installation of the new micro-bio (MB) stormwater systems. These systems help capture and filter rainwater runoff from streets and sidewalks, reducing pollution and supporting improved stormwater management.

Completed:

• MB1 (Newton Street & Newton Place)
• MB2 (Newton & 34th Street, north side)

In Progress:

• MB3 (Newton & 34th Street, south side)

Next Steps:

Upon completion of all micro-bio stormwater systems, NZI Construction will proceed to the sidewalk bump-out along 37th Street. Coordination with ongoing WSSC water main work may result in adjustments, including the potential prioritization of sidewalk replacement along Newton Street.

Resident Advisory:

• Some minor delays have occurred due to nearby water main repairs by WSSC, which have affected traffic and parking.
• Construction crews are making efforts to allow residents to safely pass through the site when possible, though some inconvenience may still occur.

Update (October 6, 2025)

Newton Street Project Update

The installation of the mainline storm drainage for the Newton Street Project has been completed. The next phase will focus on the installation of the bioretention facilities. Surveyors are expected to arrive at any time this week to begin staking and preparing for the next phase of construction. 

Residents may temporarily park along Newton Street between 34th Street and 37th Street until contractors begin the next phase.

Update (August 28, 2025)

Newton Street Project: Phase 1 Construction Underway 

Construction is now underway for Phase 1 of the Newton Street Improvement Project, covering Newton Street between 34th Street and 37th Street.

Currently, NZI Construction crews are preparing the site for full construction activities, which are expected to begin in the coming days. The estimated project timeline for phase 1 is 4 to 6 weeks, weather permitting.

Phase 1 Construction Impacts:

Traffic control signs will be posted to notify residents of traffic shifts, closures, and parking restrictions.

The City thanks all residents for their patience and cooperation during construction. 

For questions or concerns, please contact the City Manager at  citymanager@mountrainiermd.org or NZI Construction Corp. at  jnazario@nziconstruction.com

Updated August 19, 2025 

Newton Street Transformation Project Set to Begin in Late August

The City of Mount Rainier is moving forward with a major infrastructure improvement project along Newton Street between 34th Street and 37th Street. Construction is scheduled to begin in late August 2025 and continue through October 2025, with timelines subject to change.

The project will be completed by NZI Construction and designed by the Low Impact Development Center.

Construction Impacts

Work will take place on weekdays between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, and temporary changes to traffic and parking will be in effect throughout the project.

Phase 1 (Estimated 4–6 Weeks):

• The 34th Street entrance to Newton Street will be closed during construction hours.
• A portion of Newton Street between 34th Street and Newton Place will also be closed during work hours.
• Traffic along Newton Street will be reversed during the day and restored to normal after 5 PM.
• A detour will allow residents to enter Newton Street via 37th Street during construction hours.
• Only residents of 37th St. and Newton Pl. may use the 37th St. entrance to access their properties.

Phase 2:

• Newton Street will be open during this phase, and traffic will follow normal patterns.
• Portions of the parking lane on the south side of Newton Street will be closed while work is underway.

The City will provide regular updates on its website, and temporary traffic control signs will be posted in the area to notify residents of traffic shifts, closures, and parking restrictions.

For questions about the project, residents may contact contractor Jack Nazario at jnazario@nziconstruction.com, design consultant David Miller at dmiller@lidcenter.org, or City Manager Kourosh Kamali at citymanager@mountrainiermd.org.

The City thanks all residents for their patience and cooperation as these important infrastructure upgrades are completed.

Published July 6, 2025

The City of Mount Rainier is launching a major infrastructure initiative to revitalize Newton Street between 34th and 37th Streets. Designed by the Low-Income Development Center (LIDC) and funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the Newton Street Improvement Project aims to enhance stormwater management, safety, sustainability, and overall neighborhood quality through thoughtful design and construction.

The City has allocated $885,000 in ARPA funds to fully support the project. Following a competitive bidding process, NZI Construction Corporation has been selected to carry out the work, which will begin in the coming month and span several key phases, weather permitting. 

The Newton Street Improvement Project will consist of the following phases:

Residents may experience temporary access and parking disruptions. The City and the contractor will provide advance notice and work to minimize inconveniences.

For questions or concerns, please contact:

• City of Mount Rainier: citymanager@mountrainiermd.org
• NZI Construction Corp.: jnazario@nziconstruction.com

This project marks another step in Mount Rainier’s commitment to investing in a greener, safer, and more connected community.