February 2013
- New cameras and traffic flow information between Bellingham and Blaine is now available online, though crews still aren't finished with the project.
- Crews are working between Bellingham and Ferndale. Check the construction update report for lane closures.
Project overview
We will install 21 new traffic cameras along I-5 between Bellingham and Blaine, about 15 miles of fiber optic cable and add 14 traffic data stations to help improve and expand our intelligent transportation system.
Data stations allow us to use different types of monitoring equipment, such as traffic loops embedded in the roadway, to monitor traffic flow. Data is sent from the roadside to WSDOT traffic management centers to monitor operations and provide traffic conditions to the Web and the 511 traffic information hotline.
Why is WSDOT
installing 21 new traffic cameras?
The cameras are part of a larger effort to improve and expand our traveler information system in Whatcom County. The cameras, plus the fiber optic cable and data stations, will help us collect and provide more reliable and useful traveler information for local drivers as well as freight haulers and visitors traveling across one of Whatcom County's four border crossings.
We will be able to better relay timely information to drivers about delays caused by traffic, incidents, construction, weather and more. The real-time traffic conditions and travel times help drivers better plan and prepare, and make smarter decisions about when and where to commute.
The End Result
Specifically, we’ll add about a half-mile of fiber optic cable near the Samish Way interchange, and then 15 miles of cable between the Northwest Ave and Birch Bay-Lynden Road interchanges.
Camera locations:
- 2 at Samish Way interchange
- 1 at Northwest Ave interchange
- 2 at Bakerview interchange
- 1 at airport vicinity (mp 258.6)
- 1 at Slater Road interchange
- 1 at Smith Road overpass
- 3 at Main Street interchange
- 1 at Portal Way interchange
- 1 at Trigg Road (mp 264.8)
- 1 at Grandview Road interchange
- 1 at California Creek (mp 267)
- 1 at northbound Custer Rest Area
- 1 at Zell Road (mp 268)
- 1 at Willeys Lake Road (mp 268.6)
- 2 at southbound Custer Rest Area
- 1 at Birch Bay-Lynden Road interchange
Project Benefits
The 21 new traffic cameras along I-5 will allow us to have additional “eyes” on the road. Road cameras are definitely one of our most popular features on our website, especially during storms.
We use a number of low-cost, high-benefit tools to better manage highways, and technology remains one of the most inexpensive ways to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety.
The expanded traveler information system allows drivers to make informed travel decisions when they know what to expect on the roads.
What is the project timeline?
- Jan 2012: Advertise project to contractors
- March 2012: Award project to contractor
- Spring/Summer 2012: Build project
- Dec. 2012: New cameras available online
Financial Information
Project signage will reflect the cost of construction engineering, project bid award and sales tax.
| Financial Data for PIN 100589B, 100598H |
| Funding Source |
Amount ($ in thousands) |
| 2003 Gas Tax (Nickel Funding) |
$0 |
| 2005 Gas Tax (TPA) |
$0 |
| Pre-Existing Funds (PEF) |
$8,015 |
| Total |
$8,015 |
|
This is federal funding through Coordinated Border Infrastructure funds.
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Project Engineer, Chris Damitio
460 Stuart Road,
Bellingham, WA 98226
360-788-7403
Chris.Damitio@wsdot.wa.gov
Communications, Dave Chesson
1043 Goldenrod Road, Suite 101
Burlington, WA 98223
Phone: 360-757-5997
Email: chessod@wsdot.wa.gov
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