We value the relationships that we have with tribal nations around the state. That is why it is important for us to communicate and coordinate construction projects that may affect tribal resources.
Current Construction
Pontoon and anchor construction at existing marine facilities around the Puget Sound does not impact tribal resources.
2009 Closure
WSDOT consulted with several tribes regarding the 2009 bridge closure. Two members from the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe participated on the Hood Canal Bridge traffic mitigation committees. The tribe was represented on both the Hood Canal Bridge Advisory Committee and the Hood Canal Bridge Stakeholders Committees, as transportation options were being explored for the six-week bridge closure.
Previous Project Work
Previous project work at Port Angeles and the discovery of human remains and artifacts at the former graving dock construction area - Tse-whit-zen Village did impact the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe.
In December 2004, Governor Locke and Transportation Secretary MacDonald announced that WSDOT would cease pontoon and anchor construction at the Tse-whit-zen site in Port Angeles and begin searching for a more suitable place to build.
WSDOT is doing remediation at the site in Port Angeles, and iss working with the Lower Klallam Tribe to ensure that the site is respected for the history that it holds. WSDOT will return the site to its owners as outlined in the tribal settlement signed by Governor Gregoire.
WSDOT has made a commitment to the Lower Klallam Tribe that we will communicate detailed Port Angeles graving dock remediation information in a timely, professional and descriptive manner on a regular basis.
For more information regarding the graving dock in Port Angeles, visit WSDOT Accountability Web site.