July 2009
Effective July 1, 2009, funding for this project is deferred until 2019 or later. WSDOT design work stops June 30, 2009.
A summary report will be produced that covers the development work conducted by WSDOT since 2006. This report will include an updated cost estimate based on the design work conducted to date.
The ’09-’11 transportation budget includes a proviso tasking to WSDOT:
- Conduct public outreach to identify and respond to community concerns regarding the Belfair Bypass. Representatives from Mason County, the Legislature, area businesses and community members will be included in the outreach process.
- Use the outreach process to consider and develop design alternatives that alter the project scope so the community’s needs are met within the project budget.
- Provide a report on the process and outcomes to the legislature by June 30, 2010.
Why is WSDOT
engineering the Belfair bypass?
SR 3 in the Belfair community has been experiencing increased traffic volumes and delays.
The End Result
The completed bypass will provide an alternate route for Belfair through traffic.
Project Benefits
The Belfair Bypass will reduce congestion around the chronically congested downtown Belfair area by providing an alternative route for through traffic. This should have a positive economic benefit by providing more convenient access and circulation within Belfair's commercial area. SR3 through the community of Belfair will see significant traffic improvements, including easier access to and from existing businesses.
What is the project timeline?
In February 2006, WSDOT evaluated the draft Belfair Bypass Environmental Assessment document that was developed in 2002 for Mason County. Due to the time lapse in the environmental process, most aspects of the environmental documentation will need to be updated to meet current permit requirements. In addition, WSDOT has evaluated the previous design proposed by Mason County in the draft Environmental Assessment and determined that significant changes are needed to bring the design up to State Highway design standards.
The schedule and budget for design and construction will not be finalized until environmental documentation updating is complete. Preliminary design of the Bypass alignment and end connections was conducted in 2007 and early 2008. Environmental studies will be conducted through June 2009.
Effective July 1, 2009, funding for further work on this project has been deferred until 2019 or later. As a result, WSDOT design work will be put on hold at the end of June 2009.
Financial Information
This project is funded through the following sources:
It's important to note the Legislature convenes in January 2009 to consider changes to the transportation budget which may include adjustments to some project schedules.
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Bill Elliott, Project Engineer
WSDOT Tumwater Design Office
PO Box 47446
Olympia, WA 98504-7446
Phone: 360-570-6606
E-mail: elliotb@wsdot.wa.gov
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