Overview
East of Indian John Hill Rest Area the eastbound lanes of I-90 climb up to Elk Heights for over two miles. This hill caused slow-moving trucks and recreational vehicles to clog both lanes, creating a safety hazard and delaying other motorists. An additional lane and a wider bridge over Highline Canal were constructed in order to eliminate delays and minimize hazards.
 | Improves Safety
Providing a third lane allows slow-moving trucks and Recreational Vehicles to safely move out of the 70 mph traffic stream. Ease of travel will be greatly improved, and delays will be decreased. This project included minor alignment enhancements and safety improvements.
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 | Relieves Congestion
The climbing/passing lane will allow smoother travel with fewer delays along this corridor.
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 | Protects Environment
WSDOT constructed detention ponds to filter water runoff from the pavement.
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Partnerships & Cooperation
WSDOT worked closely with tribal officials to identify and minimize adverse impacts to areas of cultural, archeological or anthropological significance. When applicable, we addressed any concerns of the tribal nations using the process outlined in Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the WSDOT Tribal Consultation Policy adopted in 2003 by the Transportation Commission as part of the WSDOT Centennial Accord Plan. WSDOT consulted with the Yakama Nation and the Wanapum Tribe during the design phase of this project.
Funding
This project is funded through the following sources:
- 2003 Gas Tax (Nickel Funding) - $4.3 million
- Existing Funds - $0.7 million
- Total Funding Available from all sources - $5.0 million
Contact Us
Project Engineer, Paul Gonseth
WSDOT South Central Project Office
PO Box 12560
Yakima, WA 98909
Phone: 509.577.1810
E-mail:GonsetP@wsdot.wa.gov
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