Date:
Friday, September 22, 2006
Contact:
Allen Hendy, Assistant Area Engineer, (360) 601-8922 (Vancouver)
Alissa Bateman, WSDOT Communications, (360) 905-2078 (Vancouver)
VANCOUVER – The new “bumpy” ride along I-5 northbound between the I-205 junction and LaCenter, part of the I-5 concrete rehabilitation project, has left motorists, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), and contractors asking why. Double-lane closures will take place beginning at 9 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24 on I-5 northbound between the I-205 junction and the NE 179th Street off-ramp, as crews repave a test section of asphalt. All lanes will reopen by 6 a.m. Monday morning, Sept. 25.
The new asphalt pavement that has raised concerns is located on I-5 northbound between the I-205 junction and La Center. To determine the cause of this rough pavement, samples have been extracted from the sections of pavement in question. The samples indicate that the majority of the bumps are located above old concrete panel joints.
The state has asked the contractor to remove and replace a small test section using a different method of placing and rolling the asphalt. This will help determine if an acceptable and smooth ride is attainable without replacing the underlying concrete panels. If the test section shows this can be accomplished, contractors will remove and replace the remaining rough asphalt pavement on this section of I-5. This work is weather dependent and will be rescheduled if needed.
WSDOT thanks motorists for their patience and increased caution as we work to improve our roadway system. For more information about the I-5, I-205 to North Fork Lewis River Concrete Rehabilitation project, please visit the Web page: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/I5/NorthForkLewisRiverBridge.
The speed limit in the construction zone will be reduced to 55 mph and motorists are reminded to drive with caution through the work zones. Advance warning signs will be placed ahead of all construction areas, and motorists are asked to observe and adhere to the posted speed limits when driving through the work zones. Motorists are also reminded that all traffic fines are doubled within a construction work zone when workers are present (RCW 46.61.527).
###
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.
< Back to News Home