July 2009
- The Corridor Working Group met on April 24th and reviewed potential options and improvements that could move forward for consideration in the final report.
- We are reviewing data collected to help us develop improvement options for I-90. It's important that we continue to hear from you throughout the study process about the needs of I-90.
- Información en Español (pdf 411kb)
What is the I-90 corridor study?
The I-90 corridor study is a planning process used to gather information to determine if improvements are needed to meet exisiting and future transportation needs. The process includes gathering input from local officials and the public; collecting and analyzing traffic and other data; reviewing existing local plans and thier affect on transportation; projecting future travel demand; and evaluating improvement options.
Why is WSDOT
studying I-90 between Bellevue and North Bend?
WSDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) co-manage the interstate system in Washington State. Any changes to the interstate system, including I-90, require FHWA’s approval.
FHWA approved construction of the I-90 Sunset interchange in Issaquah with the requirement that WSDOT fund and conduct a corridor study that addresses the safety and mobility needs of this fast-growing corridor.
To meet this requirement, the 2005 Washington State legislature funded $2 million for a study of I-90 between Eastgate in Bellevue and 465th Ave. S.E. in North Bend so that we can identify short- and long-term projects for this corridor to address safety and mobility needs.
As we develop a list of near and long-term investments for I-90, between Bellevue and North Bend, we will take into consideration the relationship of all the plans and projects (regional, state and federal) for the interstate.
The End Result
When the I-90 corridor study is complete in mid 2009, WSDOT and communities along the corridor will have a list of safety and mobility improvements that could be implemented over the next 20 years if funding becomes available.
Project Benefits
The corridor study will provide a list of safety, congestion relief, and preservation improvements that support the safe and efficient travel or people and goods on I-90. This list of projects may then be incorporated into the Puget Sound Regional Council’s Transportation Plan (Destination 2030) and the Washington Transportation Plan.
What is the project timeline?
We began this study by collecting travel related data for the interstate and gathering comments from local communities. We are now reviewing this information to develop improvement options for I-90. In mid 2009, we expect complete the corridor plan and make the final list of improvement options available on the WSDOT Website and at community locations. Please continue to provide your comments about this study and I-90. We share your comments with our corridor working group who will help us to develop improvement options for the interstate.
Financial Information
This study is funded through the following funding sources:
- 2005 Gas Tax (Partnership Funding) - $2 million
- Total Funding Available From All Sources - $2 million
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Carol Hunter, Project Manager
E-mail: I90study@wsdot.wa.gov
Phone: 206-464-1219
Mail: WSDOT Urban Planning Office
401 2nd Avenue South, Suite 300
Seattle, WA 98104-2887
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