Summit-area residents are invited to a public meeting at 6 p.m. on Thurs., May 10 to learn about Pierce County’s proposed improvements to more than a mile of Canyon Road E. from 99th St. Court E. to 84th St. E.

“The improvements are intended to enhance safety and relieve traffic congestion,” said Ramiro Chavez, Pierce County Public Works and Utilities project engineering manager. “We invite residents to come and learn more about the benefits of the project.”

The proposed improvements include expanding the stretch from two lanes to five with a two-way left turn lane; adding concrete curbs, gutters and sidewalks from 96th St. E. to 84th St. E.; adding street lighting; improving the traffic signal at 84th St. E.; adding a traffic signal at 96th St. E.; and adding an enclosed storm drain system, and stormwater treatment and storage facilities.

The public meeting will be held at the Mid-County Community Center, 10205 44th Ave. E. in Tacoma. Project staff will give a presentation about the preliminary design. A question and answer session will follow. Residents are welcome to provide feedback on the project.

Residents may request special accommodations by calling (253) 798-7795.

The project is currently in the preliminary engineering phase, and environmental studies have begun. The County is also finalizing right-of-way plans.Preliminary engineering is expected to be finished in July, along with a construction cost estimate, schedule for development, and final right-of-way plans. Further project development will be determined based on the availability of funding. More information is online at http://www.co.pierce.wa.us/pc/abtus/ourorg/pwu/crp/crp5726eng.htm .