Date:  Thursday, February 11, 2010

Contact: Dustin Terpening, Communications, 360-757-5997 (Burlington)
Chris Damitio, Project Engineer, 360-788-7403 (Bellingham)

GLACIER – In a proactive effort to protect drivers and Mount Baker Highway (SR 542) from the dynamic forces of the Nooksack River, WSDOT has awarded a $2.1 million contract to Interwest Construction, Inc. of Burlington to shift a quarter-mile of the highway away from the river east of Glacier.

This project is primarily funded by the 2005 Transportation Partnership Funding Package.

The highway has suffered repetitive flood damage over the years from the Nooksack River.

Crews will shift a portion of the highway near E. Church Mountain Road to help reduce the risk of flood damage and emergency closures. This is a long-term fix that will prevent costly emergency repairs and lane closures.

“We’re taking a proactive approach that will help reduce flooding and maintenance-related closures, save money, and protect vital fish habitat,” project engineer Chris Damitio said.

Crews will also build a new bridge at Chain-up Creek, along the same stretch of road that is being shifted, to improve fish passage. The existing culvert is a barrier for fish.

Construction will begin as early as April. The highway will be reduced to one lane with alternating traffic for the duration of the project, which is expected to wrap up in October. A traffic signal will direct drivers through the work zone.

For more project details, visit the Web page www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/SR542/ChurchMountainRealignment/.  

< Go Back