Date:  Friday, April 15, 2011

Contact: Dave Chesson, communications, 360-757-5970 (Burlington)
Dave Crisman, project engineer, 360-428-1593 (Mount Vernon)

OAK HARBOR – The busiest stretch of State Route 20 on Whidbey Island will get a much needed makeover this summer when crews repave through downtown Oak Harbor.

Repaving begins in June and by fall the highway will look and feel decades younger.

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) hired Lakeside Paving for the $3.2 million project.

Crews will repave nearly three miles of highway from Harbor Vista Drive to N.E. Narrows Ave., and improve 88 sidewalk ramps and 10 traffic islands, making them more accessible for everyone.

“It’s been more than 20 years since we repaved this stretch of highway,” said Engineering Manager Marco Foster. “This project isn’t just about getting rid of cracks and bumps; it’s about preserving the highway for daily drivers and tourists alike.”

Crews will do as much work as possible at night to minimize traffic delays and inconveniences to local businesses. However, drivers should still expect a few minor delays during the day. More construction details will be available once WSDOT engineers meet with the contractor next month.

One easy way for residents and drivers to stay informed during construction is to subscribe to WSDOT email updates. Visit www.wsdot.wa.gov/emailupdates and subscribe to the Skagit/Island update.

For more project information, visit the project website at: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/SR20/OakHarborPaving/.  

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