Project Title & Location

US 12/SR 124 to McNary Pool – Add Lanes –
Tri-Cities (Phase 2)     MP 295.2 to MP 299.3

Project Description
This project is the second phase of five phases that will reconstruct US 12 as a four lane divided highway from SR 124 to the Walla Walla River, and plan for the future four-laning from the Wallula Junction to Walla Walla.

Contractor/Consultant
 Steelman-Duff, Inc.  

Recent Progress

The design phase is complete and all parcels have been acquired. The contract was advertised on October 4, 2004 and bids were opened on December 1, 2004.  Steelman-Duff, Inc. of Clarkston, WA was awarded the contract.   Work to alter three irrigation structures prior to the main widening project is underway.  A Value Engineering study is planned for spring 2005 for the US 12/ SR 124 Interchange. 

Design Construction Impacts

As discussed in the September 2004 QPR, the work to construct one of the frontage roads was removed from this contract. Construction of this road is planned for a separate contract or in conjunction with the Phase 3 project - US 12 / Attalia Vicinity.  $300,000 has been reserved from the total project cost to construct this frontage road.  Any additional cost above this budgeted amount is planned to be funded by the local jurisdictions.

The cost to alter the three irrigation structures was higher than anticipated.  Higher than expected pipe costs and requiring the contractor to complete the project within a short timeframe added to the increase.

The main widening contract cost is also slightly higher than anticipated.   The Region is working to achieve the statewide goal of reducing herbicide use along the roadside.  This required a unique roadway cross section that included topsoil and soil amendment.  Placing the soil amendment was more costly than anticipated.  This increase, plus higher than anticipated asphalt prices and the increased cost to alter the irrigation structures has placed the entire project construction cost over the budgeted construction phase amount. However, due to cost savings in right of way acquisition and preliminary engineering,  the total project cost is expected to remain within budget. 

Environmental Impacts / Compliance

The Environmental Assessment has been updated.  A  Section 106 study was completed in February 2004.  Cultural monitoring will likely be required.  A Noise Study was completed in October 2003;  no noise abatement is required.

The US Army Corps of Engineers has confirmed that the "Talent Ruling" will not affect this project.  

A National Pollution Discharge Elimination System permit has been acquired for construction of this project.

Impacts to Traffic

The new lanes will be constructed parallel to and westerly of the existing roadway.  We anticipate minimal impacts to the traveling public during construction.

Advertised on October 4, 2004.

Planned vs. Actual Expenditures
(Total Project Cost)

Nickel funds included in above costs

2005 Transportation Partnership Account