November 2009
- WSDOT will begin construction in 2010 at the highest-priority locations first between Samish Way and Sunset Drive.
- In 2006, the state Legislature combined this project with the I-5 36th Street to SR 542 project, for a combined total of $14 million in funding.
- We will improve safety and I-5 on- and off-ramps from Samish Way (exit 252) to Sunset Drive (exit 255) in Bellingham.
Overview
The Bellingham on- and off-ramps between Samish Way and Sunset Drive need to be improved to help reduce collisions and relieve congestion on this heavily traveled section of I-5. We analyzed existing and future traffic conditions at each of the on- and off-ramps between Samish Way and Sunset Drive through downtown Bellingham. Based on our findings, we will develop a list of potential improvements that will help enhance safety and relieve congestion at these interchanges. The results of our findings will be incorporated into the I-5 Fairhaven to Slater Interstate Master Plan.
The plan will analyze current and future traffic conditions on I-5 and make recommendations to improve the interstate, including interchanges and connected local roads from Fairhaven Parkway (exit 250) to Slater Road (exit 260).The plan will provide a broader systemwide approach and include a list of short- and long-term improvements to address safety problems and help relieve congestion through the year 2035.
The master plan will be completed by mid 2008. WSDOT will begin construction in 2010 at the highest-priority locations first, between Samish Way and Sunset Drive. Improving interchanges will help make them safer and easier to use.
Why is WSDOT
looking at ways to improve the on- and off-ramps in downtown Bellingham?
Whatcom County’s population has grown more than 150 percent since I-5 was built in the 1960s and is expected to increase by another 52 percent by 2035. The on- and off-ramps through downtown Bellingham are not capable of safely carrying increased traffic volumes.
The downtown Bellingham on- and off-ramps between Samish Way and Sunset Drive were built more than 40 years ago and do not meet current state and federal design standards. The ramps are short, making it difficult for drivers to enter and exit I-5 safely, causing congestion at interchanges, and creating backups on the interstate. The ramps need to be improved so that they can carry traffic safely and efficiently.
The End Result
The list of short- and long-term improvements included in the master plan will help us identify and prioritize which safety improvements between Samish Way and Sunset Drive will be implemented first using available funding. Improvements to these interchanges in downtown Bellingham will help keep drivers safe and traffic moving more efficiently. We will solicit funding for the other improvement projects not addressed by the initial improvements.
Project Benefits
- Safety: Improvements to the on- and off-ramps will help reduce the number of collisions and injuries for drivers exiting and entering the interstate.
- Congestion relief: Improving the on- and off-ramps will allow this stretch of interstate to carry more people, freight and vehicles efficiently as the region continues to grow.
- Environment: While reconstructing on- and off-ramps, we will upgrade culverts and ditches to help minimize erosion during large storms. We will also build stormwater treatment facilities to filter contaminants out of highway stormwater.
What is the project timeline?
- 2006-2007: Analyzed existing and future traffic conditions.
- 2007: Work with local public agencies and the community to identify and prioritize improvement projects.
- 2008: Summarize findings and incorporate results into the I-5 Fairhaven to Slater Interstate Master Plan.
- 2010: Begin construction on highest-priority locations between Samish Way and Sunset Drive and seek funding for other improvements identified in the plan.
Financial Information
This project is funded through the following sources:
In 2006, the Washington state Legislature combined the I-5 36th Street to SR 542 project with this project, adding an additional $5 million in funding to improve the on- and off-ramps and local street network between Samish Way and Sunset Drive.
The information shown reflects the current proposed project budget and schedule. The 2009 Legislature may consider changes to the transportation budget that may include adjustments to some project budgets and schedules.
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Project Engineer, Shane Spahr
1043 Goldenrod Road, Suite 101
Burlington, WA 98223
Phone: 360.757.5856
E-mail: SparhS@wsdot.wa.gov
Communications, Dustin Terpening
1043 Goldenrod Road, Suite 101
Burlington, WA 98223
Phone: 360.757.5997
Email: TerpeniD@wsdot.wa.gov
back to top