FAQs • Bothell WA • CivicEngage

Why is a section of 102nd Ave NE still closed to traffic?: Initially, crews needed to assess the stability of the remaining buildings on both the east and west sides of 102nd Avenue Northeast before opening the roadway to traffic. Ensuring public safety is our top priority.
The façade at the Mercantile Building has been deemed structurally sound, but the Bothell Mall has not. The northern- and eastern-facing walls closest to the roads are severely compromised and the building must be demolished. We were able to reopen Main Street because the northern-facing wall is set back from the road and the second floor is no longer standing.
There are issues that need to be resolved by the property owner before demolition, including asbestos removal. The city is working with the Bothell Mall owner to expedite demolition.

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Fire recovery

1. Why is a section of 102nd Ave NE still closed to traffic?: Initially, crews needed to assess the stability of the remaining buildings on both the east and west sides of 102nd Avenue Northeast before opening the roadway to traffic. Ensuring public safety is our top priority.
The façade at the Mercantile Building has been deemed structurally sound, but the Bothell Mall has not. The northern- and eastern-facing walls closest to the roads are severely compromised and the building must be demolished. We were able to reopen Main Street because the northern-facing wall is set back from the road and the second floor is no longer standing.
There are issues that need to be resolved by the property owner before demolition, including asbestos removal. The city is working with the Bothell Mall owner to expedite demolition.

2. When will 102nd Ave NE reopen to traffic?: The owner of the Bothell Mall has hired a contractor to demolish the building. Demolition is a complex matter, given the presence of asbestos, the proximity of the building to 102nd Avenue, and other issues. However, reopening of the road may occur as early as Thursday, Sept. 8th.