Date:
Monday, February 13, 2006
Contact:
Leon Winger, Project Engineer, 360-442-1346
Kevin Miller, Assistant Area Engineer, 360-442-1353
Sylvia Ross, WSDOT Communications, 360-905-2058
STELLA – State Route 4 has again been closed due to an emergent safety hazard, announced the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). The two o'clock opening was cancelled due to large rock debris causing instability and becoming a serious hazard to passing traffic. Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes. Engineers are on-site inspecting the impacted area. A determination on possible opening will be made by 4 p.m. today, February 13.
The previously closed stretch of roadway was impacted by large falling debris mid-day Monday, when a 4ft. x 8 ft. boulder dislodged from the face of the slope.The work was being performed during the closure and did not compromise the safety of the public. The boulder was caught by and damaged the rock fall fence separating the partially functioning eastbound lane from the work zone. The falling rock caused a more serious safety hazard when, by dislodging, it loosened an adjacent piece of rock, approximately 8 ft. x 12 ft. in size. That piece now threatens the roadway and crews' safety.
WSDOT asks that citizens call the hotline, 1-800-545-1393 to get the most updated information on the status of SR 4. Motorists are encouraged to use the Puget Island Ferry to Ore. as a detour alternative.
Three contractors, Ostrander Rock & Construction Co., Hi-Tech Rockfall Construction and Pacific Blasting Company, have been working to stabilize the slope and clear the slide. Work on the slope will continue until the surrounding slope on the north side of the roadway is deemed safe for those traveling on the roadway below.
The slide happened during the windy conditions on February 4. The impacted section of the highway is at mile post 50 near Bunker Hill.
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