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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. Tunnels and/or mitigation measures will minimize avalanche closures and hazards due to rockfall. 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
The project team is currently working to address the recommendations from the Value Engineering (VE) Study, held in late November, 2006. Several of the recommendations are being considered, one of which is to replace the existing snowshed with a larger six-lane shed that will protect traffic from the most active avalanche chutes in this area. This recommendation is the result of modifying the design speed, and is based on geotechnical information that was obtained last summer.
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Design Construction Impacts
Due to the winter season, no field work is currently being performed. Geotechnical exploration and other field activities will continue this spring and summer.
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Environmental Impacts / Compliance
VE Study recommendations are being asessed to determine impacts to NEPA, Section 106 and 4(f) work. It is anticipated that changes from the VE study recommendations will result in short term delays, but the project should remain on track (See changes in Milestone Outlook).
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Impacts to Traffic
Due to the onset of winter, no project-related impacts to traffic are planned.
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