After 16 years of delays, the first phase of the Burke-Gilman Missing Link construction is set to start this winter.

According to SDOT, the city plans to begin work on Phase 1, which includes the western end of the Missing Link, from the Locks to the intersection of 24th Ave NW and NW Market St. Phase 2 includes the Shilshole corridor — SDOT is still working with business and property owners to refine the design of that section. They say they’re expecting Phase 2 construction to begin in mid-2019.

SDOT has mock-ups of the entire layout of the Missing Link (Missing Link Graphic Design Plans) which shows in detail the trail alignment and roadway/driveway crossings. The various driveway crossings along Shilshole will be marked with green pavement, and where appropriate, “Truck Crossing” signs with LED flashing lights.

While the plans are well-laid, there’s still a chance a court order could block the construction. There’s an appeal still in process in King County Superior Court, in which the Seattle Bike Blog’s Tom Fucoloro says the appellants have a tough case to make. Regardless, he warns that even though the ball is rolling, things could change.

“Because after this much delay, it would not be wise to assume this project will be completed until crews are pouring the cement,” Fucoloro writes. “This is the closest the trail has ever been to construction, but appellants are still fighting hard.”

For updates, maps, and history on the saga that is the Missing Link, click here.