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Project Title & Location
I-90 - Snoqualmie Pass East - Hyak to Keechelus Dam
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Project Description
This project will improve I-90 to provide a safer, more efficient six-lane freeway from Hyak to Keechelus Dam. This project is the first of several projects that will address concerns along I-90 from Hyak to Easton. Avalanche closures and hazards due to rockfall will be minimized. Aging pavement will be replaced to provide a smoother ride. Expanded bridges and culverts will minimize wildlife collisions by providing safer crossings.
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Contractor/Consultant
General Engineering Consultant: URS Corporation - Headquartered in San Francisco, CA
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Recent Progress
The 2008 geotechnical investigation program is 100% complete as of November 2008. The design team has acquired all the geotechnical data required to complete rock slope reinforcement and structure foundation designs. There is limited geotechnical investigation work anticipated in 2009. Two additional test sections of wildlife fence were installed in October. Evaluation of the condition of these fence sections will begin after winter snow removal in the spring of 2009. The first construction contract is on schedule for advertisement in early 2009. The second contract is on schedule for 60% design completion by the end of December 2008, with an advertisement date scheduled for late 2009.
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Design Construction Impacts
The results of the 2008 geotechnical investigation work revealed deeper than expected bedrock along Keechelus Lake. Structural walls are not feasible due to global stability issues. Design of a bridge with approach walls to span over this area is currently in preliminary design stages, utilizing geotechnical information acquired from this summers geotechnical program. The project office is working with local fire districts and the county fire marshal to determine the level of fire protection required for the snowshed. The final decision on the level of protection will better define associated costs and impacts on the HQ Bridge Design schedule.
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Environmental Impacts / Compliance
The project has delivered the Final Environmental Impact Statement, Endangered Species Act (ESA) consultation is complete, and the Record of Decision (ROD) was signed in October 2008. The project is on track to complete permitting for Phase 1A by the end of 2008.
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Impacts to Traffic
No traffic control impacts due to project development work are anticipated for the next quarter. Traffic control impacts are anticipated to start in late spring 2009 as a result of construction work for the first contract; no impacts are expected due to geotechnical exploration.
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