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I-90 - Yakima River to W Ellensburg - Paving - Complete July 2009

Project is in construction phase
I-90 Yakima River to West Ellensburg View a larger map


Project Photos

Columbia Asphalt worker and family talk to reporter about the work generated by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.



Crews replaced the pavement on I-90 near Ellensburg.

Status

This project is complete.

Why is WSDOT paving this portion of the highway?
The asphalt pavement on this nearly four mile section of I-90 is deteriorating due to age and harsh weather. In February 2009, President Barack Obama signed into law the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. WSDOT now stands ready to translate the federal recovery funding into job creation and highway improvements, including this roadway preservation project.

The End Result
Drivers will experience a smoother, safer driving surface on this section of eastbound and westbound I-90. The project will also strengthen and preserve the road surface to handle heavy traffic and freight trucks.

Project Benefits
Preservation. The new surface will require less repair work, reduce maintenance costs, and extend the life of the roadway.
Safety. Drivability will be enhanced due to the smoother roadway surface and updated safety features such as guardrails, signing and striping.
Jobs. We estimate this project will support 25 jobs, which includes jobs on the project, jobs producing materials for the project, and other jobs in the local community.

What is the project timeline?
WSDOT awarded this project to the low bidder, Columbia Asphalt, in April. Work started on April 30, and the new pavement should be open to traffic in July.

Financial Information
This project is fully funded by the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

Total federal funding: $3 million*

*ARRA funds originally committed for this preservation project - $3 million
The project was awarded on April 6 for almost 20% below our engineer's estimate. The new total project cost is $2.5 million, including design and safety improvements. Once the surplus ARRA funds are de-obligated from this project, WSDOT will use the funds to complete a project on the previously identified Tier 2 list.

For more information about other projects funded by the stimulus package, please visit our American Recovery and Reinvestment page.

How can I get more information?
Contact:
Will Smith
WSDOT Project Engineer
509-577-1840
Smithw@wsdot.wa.gov

Or

Amy Danberg
WSDOT Communications
509-577-1944
Danbera@wsdot.wa.gov

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