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
Project not yet advertised or awarded

Recent Progress
The design phase is in progress.  The regional Real Estate Services office is continuing to acquire access rights and properties.  54 of a total of 62 parcels have been acquired.  The Environmental Assessment has been updated.  Alternatives continue to be evaluated for the US 12/ SR 124 Interchange.  Three irrigation structures need to be altered to allow for the new lanes.  The big opening for a separate contract to accomplish this work is anticipated in late September. This critical work will be completed prior to the main widening construction.  This work will be accomplished during the irrigation off-season,  to minimize impacts to irrigation customers.

Design Construction Impacts
Right-of-Way acquisition is a major focus at this time.  Several properties remain to be acquired and some involve processes with lenders that are beyond the control of the WSDOT.  Every effort is being made to complete these acquisitions so that the Contract Advertisement Date is not affected.

The right of way for one of the planned frontage roads is in the process of transferring to new ownership and will not be transferred in time for Contract Advertisement.  This transfer will allow for a more compatible, long-term alignment for the frontage road.  The work to construct this road has been removed from this contract.  When the property transfer is complete, this frontage road will either be constructed by change order under this contract or under the US 12-Attalia Vicinity - Add Lanes project.

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.

Planned vs. Actual Expenditures
(Total Project Cost)

Nickel funds included in above costs

2005 Transportation Partnership Account