West Linn is kicking off a busy summer of public works projects, starting with new sidewalks and safer crossings near Sunset Primary School.

Crews are filling sidewalk gaps on Long Street and extending the sidewalk along Bitner Street near Sunset Park as part of the city’s Safe Routes to Schools program. Public Works Director Erich Lais said improving sidewalks and crossings remains one of the city’s most frequent requests from residents.

The pedestrian upgrades are one of three major projects planned this summer.

Beginning in late July or early August, the city will begin a slurry seal program to protect road surfaces and prevent cracks and potholes. The treatment adds a protective layer of asphalt, rock and water to existing pavement.

A list of affected streets and closures has not yet been released.

The largest project underway is early site work for a new city operations center on Salamo Road.

The City Council approved $17 million for initial construction work this summer, including excavation, utility installation, erosion control, fencing and surveying.

The future facility will replace the city’s aging Public Works building, which dates to the 1930s and was designed for a much smaller population. The new center will bring together water, sewer, stormwater, streets, fleet and parks operations in one location.

The city has secured permits for the early site work, though a separate neighborhood appeal involving the project is still pending. Officials said the current construction activities were planned to avoid interfering with that process.

Residents can follow project updates and road closure notices through the city’s Public Works website.