Date:
Monday, April 21, 2008
Contact:
Lisa Murdock, WSDOT Communication Manager, 360/357-2789
PORT ANGELES – SR 112, a National Scenic Byway called the Strait of Juan De Fuca Highway became even more attractive Wednesday, April 15, when signs were unveiled showing the newly developed and adopted logo that will line the route for travelers to the area.
Representatives from WSDOT, Clallam County, the Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway Association and others gathered at noon just west of Port Angeles at the sign-unveiling event to celebrate the accomplishment.
“Now everyone that travels through this beautiful area will know it’s the Strait of Juan de Fuca Highway,” said Joe Murray, President of the Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway Association.
The association was established in 2004 as a formal, state, not-for-profit corporation. A mandate followed from the IRS, wherein bylaws were adopted and a mission statement, vision and goals were established. The mission aims at promoting the 61-mile route to share its beauty, culture and history.
The association also strives to provide a safe and enjoyable experience and a sense of community for travelers on the highway. Some of the activities promoted by the association include:
- Camping, RV’ing
- Surfing and diving
- Photography
- Bird watching
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Hunting
- Hiking
“It is exciting to see this project come to fruition,” said Carrie Sunstrom, WSDOT Scenic Byway Coordinator.
In 2006 the association, in conjunction with WSDOT, applied for a grant. That grant allowed for the development of the logo, sign design and fabrication; and installation of the signs along the SR 112 corridor from just west of Port Angeles to the entrance of the Makah Indian Reservation.
“I will let you in on a secret,” said Sunstrom. “I’ve traveled on a lot of our state’s scenic byways. But this one’s one of my favorites!”
History: In 1592, a Spanish expedition led by “Juan de Fuca” believed the waters in the area to be the Straits of Anian, the long-sought Northwest Passage. In 1787, English Captain Charles Barclay rediscovered the straits and named it for its “founder.”
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