Project Title & Location
US 12 – Phase 4, Walla Walla to Wallula Planning Study, Walla Walla County

Project Description
This planning study will prepare initial environmental documentation to determine the preferred corridor alignment for US 12 from the Wallula junction to Walla Walla, addressing congestion and safety needs for the highway.

Contractor/Consultant
David Evans and Associates conducted the Preliminary Environmental Investigation.  Additoinal analysis will also be conducted by DEA.

Recent Progress
Managing Project Delivery (MPD) has been completed for the Level 1 environmental  analysis.  MPD will be developed and completed for Level 2 after an EA/EIS decision has been made.

Design Construction Impacts
WSDOT is moving forward with documenting the environmental and engineering impacts caused by expansion of the road to four lanes.  The first level of analysis is almost complete and will be published in the spring of 2006.  Designation of a preferred alignment will not be done until late 2007 or 2008.

Environmental Impacts / Compliance
The Project Team has been working with David Evans and Associates to prepare a preliminary Engineering and Environmental Analysis for Phases 7 and 8.  This analysis will be used to screen alternative corridors and to help conclude whether a NEPA EA or EIS is warranted.

Additional data on archealogical and cultural impacts is being collected and prepared for the corridors between Wallula and the Vicinity of McDonald Road.

Impacts to Traffic

The Project Management Team will determine the Final Environmental documentation date upon completion of the Level 1 Analysis.

Planned vs. Actual Expenditures
(Total Project Cost)

Nickel funds included in above costs

2005 Transportation Partnership Account