What has WSDOT done to involve and inform the public?
There are a number of ways to be involved and learn about this project. Through public notices (October 2003 pdf 195 kb, March 2004 pdf 124 kb, August 2005 pdf 329 kb ), this Web page, mailers, and the local media, we will let you know what is going on. Information can also be found in the Frequently Asked Questions (pdf 88 kb). We also want to know what you think. You can send us your general comments in writing or by e-mail.
WSDOT engaged the public in the early stages of this project starting in February 2001 as part of the creation of I-5/I-205 North Corridor Strategy Plan, and in February 2002 as part of the creation of the Access Point Decision Report. As part of these efforts, several public open houses were held in 1999 and 2000, and a special Citizen's Advisory Committee gave input and guidance to the study team.
In late 2003, work began on the Environmental Assessment for the project. The Environmental Assessment examined the potential impacts of the Recommended Build Alternative, as compared to the No-Build Alternative, on the environment, and determines how these impacts might be lessened. In October 2003 (pdf 195 kb), a newsletter and scoping notice were distributed, and a public scoping meeting was held. See the October 2003 Open House Summary (pdf 46 kb) for an outline of comments from the meeting.
In March 2004, a second public open house was held at the Battle Ground High School, which allowed the public to review and comment on the various design alternatives being considered, the criteria used for their evaluation, and the Recommended Build Alternative for the interchange. See the March 2004 Open House Summary (pdf 46 kb) for public comments made in response to the evaluation criteria and the original Recommended Build Alternative (Option E-4).
Public involvement continued as two final options were evaluated. The results showed Option M as the best option and WSDOT met with property owners in May and July 2004 to help define the option.
Upon further study, a new northbound loop ramp (pdf 171 kb) was designed. Area residents and businesses were notified of the change with a postcard (pdf 103 kb) , and affected property owners received a letter and graphic of the new ramp.
On March 24, 2005, WSDOT hosted a combined open house and access hearing for property owners affected by this project. Pre-hearing packets were sent to all affected property owners and local elected officials prior to the hearing.
In August 2005, WSDOT completed the Environmental Assessment for the project. The Executive Summary (pdf 260 kb) of the Environmental Assessment is available for review on this Web page by clicking the words “Executive Summary” in this sentence.
A 30-day public and agency review and comment period for the Environmental Assessment occurred on August 17-September 16, 2005. During that time, copies of the Environmental Assessment were available for review during regular business hours at multiple locations (pdf 283 kb). In addition, WSDOT presented the Environmental Assessment for public review and comments at an open house on September 1 at the Battle Ground High School.
WSDOT will post the latest public involvement information on the SW Region's Public Involvement page.