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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 Corportation - Headquartered in San Francisco, CA
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Recent Progress
WSDOT has received recommendations from the Project Interdisciplinary Team on the preferred alternative. WSDOT has concurred with the team's recommendations and has started design on the preferred alternative.
WSDOT selected a general engineering consultant to form a blended project office with local WSDOT engineers in Yakima. Subsurface geotechnical investigations to determine soil conditions and depth to bedrock began in June. The geotechnical investigation will provide information for the design of proposed bridges, walls, and rock slopes. Drilling associated with the geotechnical investigation will continue through summer.
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Design Construction Impacts
WSDOT will install a rock fall protection fence adjacent to the roadway at Slide Curve (MP 58.8) prior to beginning drilling for geotechnical investigations. Installation is scheduled in August and the fence should be removed before Labor Day.
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Environmental Impacts / Compliance
The Draft Environmental Impact Statement was issued in June 2005. Selection of the preferred alternative will now allow formal consultation to begin with the US Fish and Wildlife Service for Endangered Species Act compliance. The Final EIS will be prepared based on the preferred alternative.
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Impacts to Traffic
Short term lane closures, planned for midweek, will be required in the westbound direction around 'Slide Curve' (near MP 59) for the installation and removal of a rock fall protection fence.
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