Date:
Friday, February 10, 2006
Contact:
Travis Phelps, WSDOT Communications, (206) 440-4470 (Seattle)
Dave McCormick, Assistant Regional Administrator, (206) 440-4656 (Seattle)
SEATTLE – Washington State Department of Transportation crews are closely monitoring a hillside on State Route 530 between Arlington and Darrington near the town of Oso in Snohomish County. Near record rainfall has saturated the soil on the hillside causing ground under the roadway to sink approximately six inches.
WSDOT survey and maintenance crews will monitor the hillside throughout the weekend looking for any signs of significant movement.
“Right now the roadway is safe for drivers. However, if this movement continues we may have to close the highway to build a retaining wall and reconstruct the roadway,” said Assistant Regional Administrator Dave McCormick.
If crews determine the road has to be closed, the only viable detour route will take drivers between Darrington and I-5 via SR 20, a trip of more than 110 miles.
“We realize closing all lanes of SR 530 would be a major inconvenience for drivers, especially since there is no easy detour around the closure,” said McCormick.
As a short term fix, WSDOT maintenance crews will pave a 250 foot stretch of SR 530 today to seal cracks and provide drivers with a smooth driving surface.
For the most recent updates about highway closures, avalanche control, and status of roadway conditions resulting from winter weather, please visit: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Traffic/Weather/updates. This site is updated regularly as conditions change.
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Drivers can now get real time traffic and weather information by dialing 5-1-1 from most phones. This new traveler information system builds upon the highly successful Washington State Highway hotline that managed 4.6 million calls each year. Callers can also use 5-1-1 to get statewide construction, mountain pass condition, and state ferry system information, as well as toll free numbers for passenger rail and airlines. TTY users can call 1-800-833-6388.
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