Date:
Friday, February 17, 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 will be open to single-lane traffic at all times starting Sunday, February 19, announced the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). One lane will remain closed for repairs on the slope, but flaggers will be on site to assist with the passing traffic. Current two-hour opening schedule will remain in place through Saturday at 5:30 p.m.
Both Friday and Saturday, motorists can expect the same schedule that has been in place this week. However, once the road opens on Saturday evening, it will remain open, with flaggers and spotters on site. Sunday, no work will be conducted and delays are less likely. On Monday repair work will resume, so while traffic will be able to pass through, 20 minute delays are likely throughout the day.
WSDOT wants to warn motorists that only one lane remains functional to provide room for temporary safety screening and for crews to conduct work, so some delays in alternating traffic will occur. Flaggers, as well as spotters, will be on site to direct traffic safely.
WSDOT made the decision to open the roadway once engineers determined that the work completed on stabilizing the slope, as well as the safety measures in place, allow for steady access to traffic.
Because work on the slope is on-going, unforeseen closures, and subsequent traffic back-ups are possible. Barring unexpected circumstances, this arrangement is likely to continue through the rest of the project. WSDOT suggests that citizens call the hotline, 1-800-545-1393 to get updated information on opening schedule for SR 4.
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 stabilization is complete.
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