Topic: State & Local
From the Chinook Observer
Huge highwayproject planned this summer
Traffic signal will be installed at dangerous Sandridge-US101 intersection
Observer staff report
SOUTH PACIFIC COUNTY - A new traffic signal at the dangerous intersection of U.S. Highway 101 and Sandridge Road is among many highway improvements slated for south Pacific County this summer.
There have been dozens of wrecks at this intersection over the years, and almost as many calls for safety enhancements.
The biggest traffic impacts of the $7.4 million project will result from the complete resurfacing of nearly 27 miles of U.S.101 from the Astoria Bridge, through Chinook and Ilwaco, and extending up around the bay to Johnson's Landing near Naselle, where the highway intersects with State Route 4.
In Ilwaco, the existing signal at the intersection of U.S. 101 and S.R. 100 will be replaced, and sidewalk ramps will be upgraded to Americans with Disabilities Act standards.
According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, just over 12 miles of S.R. 401 will also be resurfaced in Pacific County. Improvements to nearly five miles of pavement along S.R. 4 in Wahkiakum County will take place. Planned improvements include resurfacing the pavement, replacing guardrail and signs where needed.
"The pavement is beyond its useful life span and in need of repair. Deteriorating pavement is likely to crack and develop ruts, causing an unsafe driving surface for motorists," according to WSDOT.
Throughout the summer, motorists should expect single lane closures along U.S. 101, S.R. 4. There will be no lane closures during the following events: Sandsations - July 20 and 21; Kite Festival - Aug. 20 through Aug. 26; and Rod Run - Sept. 7 through Sept. 9. There will also be no lane closures during observed holidays or after noon on a day prior to an observed holiday.
A majority of construction will be completed by fall by Lakeside Industries, Inc. of Longview. However, work is weather dependent, so work may continue into 2008. Regular updates will be printed in the Chinook Observer and posted on WSDOT Southwest Region Weekly Travel Advisory Web page: (www.wsdot.wa.gov/Regions/SouthWest/Construction). The traveling public can also get the latest travel information by calling 511 from most phones.
