February 2010
- This week's traffic impacts
- Drivers traveling on I-205 northbound were able to use the new connector ramp to NE 112th Avenue around the clock on December 18, 2009.
- The project is nearly complete and has some final landscaping and sign work to finish. Work is expected to be complete by Febrarury 2010.
- For additional information regarding public involvement, safety improvements, environmental protection and tribal impacts of this project, visit the Project Specifics page.
Overview
This project will provide a direct connection to NE 112th Avenue from the northbound I-205 off-ramp to westbound Mill Plain Boulevard. This is a partnership project with the City of Vancouver.
The prime contractor on this project is Selby Bridge Company of Vancouver, WA.
This effort is part of strategic improvements to the I-205 freeway ramp network that has been in the planning stages for many years.
This project is funded from the 2003 Legislative Transportation Package and by the City of Vancouver.
Why is WSDOT
building this project with the City of Vancouver?
The close proximity of existing traffic signals and the high traffic volumes on Mill Plain Boulevard often results in long delays and traffic back-ups at the intersection of Mill Plain Boulevard and Chkalov Drive.
This congestion, combined with high volumes of traffic exiting northbound I-205 onto Mill Plain during peak travel times, results in congested freeway off ramps. Cars are lined up in the exit lane, impeding the traffic flow on northbound I-205 and westbound State Route 14. This congestion poses a significant safety concern and contributes to substantial delays and motorist frustration. A significant portion of the exiting traffic in this area is bound for NE 112th Avenue.
Our Partners
This project is being coordinated with the city of Vancouver. The city initiated work in an effort to improve safety and mobility in this area. The state will work with the city and contractor to prepare plans and will oversee the construction.
The End Result
This project will provide a direct connection to NE 112th Avenue from the off ramp of northbound I-205 to westbound Mill Plain Boulevard.
This effort is part of strategic improvements to the I-205 freeway ramp network that has been in the planning stages for many years.
Project Benefits
- Congestion Relief: When completed, the new ramp will reduce delays around the intersection of Mill Plain Boulevard and Chkalov Drive and at the northbound I-205 off ramp to Mill Plain Boulevard by 50 percent during peak travel times in 2020.
- Safety: This project will help reduce rear-end-type accidents on the Mill Plain Boulevard off ramp, which has been identified as a High Accident Location.
What is the project timeline?
- Winter 2004: Design and engineering work began.
- Spring 2006: Revise design to coordinate with Stage 1 of the I-205, Mill Plain to NE 18th Street Project and complete additional environmental documentation and refined design.
- June 9, 2008: Construction began.
- 2010: The new interchange configuration will be open to traffic.
Financial Information
2003 Legislative Funding Package (Nickel Funding): $12 million
City of Vancouver: $4 million (includes federal earmark and local funds for design, engineering, right of way acquisition and construction)
Total Estimated Project Cost: $16 million
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Area Engineer Leon Winger
WSDOT Vancouver Area Office
PO Box 1709
Vancouver, WA 98668-1709
11018 NE 51st Circle
Vancouver, WA 98682-6686
Phone: 360-905-1500
E-mail: swVanc@wsdot.wa.gov
or
Communications
WSDOT Southwest Region
PO Box 1709
Vancouver, WA 98668-1709
11018 NE 51st Circle
Vancouver, WA 98682-6686
Phone: 360-905-2058
E-mail: SWWebInfo@wsdot.wa.gov
or
Jeff Schmidt
City of Vancouver, Transportation Services
PO Box 1995
Vancouver, WA 98668-1995
Phone: 360-696-8290
E-mail: jeff.schmidt@ci.vancouver.wa.us
or access our project feedback form.
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