November 2009
- Construction is scheduled to begin in 2010.
- Sign up for e-mail updates, and we'll keep you posted on upcoming lane closures, delays and construction projects that may affect your commute or neighborhood.
- The 2005 Transportation Partnership Funding Package provided $13.4 million for improvements on State Route 542 and the Nooksack River.
Overview
Years of flooding along the Nooksack River have caused repetitive bank and roadway damage to Mount Baker Highway (SR 542). This highway is the prime route to communities east of Bellingham, the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and Mt. Baker Ski Area. To protect the roadway and drivers, we will relocate sections of the roadway away from the river and redirect parts of the river away from the roadway.
Why is WSDOT
making these improvements?
The Nooksack River is prone to seasonal flooding. These floods often damage roads, costing tens of thousands of dollars every year to repair. The road closures inherent to the repair work are a major inconvenience to drivers. We want to build long-term fixes that prevent costly emergency repairs and repeated lane closures.
The End Result
We will find the sections of highway and river that have a history of flood damage and fix them before they become another emergency repair project. Long-term solutions include shifting the highway further from the river where possible, and pushing the river further from highway when necessary.
When complete, drivers will have a safer highway that is less prone to flood damage. This proactive approach will reduce flooding and maintenance road closures, save money, and protect vital fish habitat.
Project Benefits
- Safety - We will help protect the highway and drivers from floods and highway damage.
- Congestion - Relocating the road and the river will prevent road closures, thus relieving congestion.
- Environment - We will help endangered species of fish by protecting spawning areas along the river.
What is the project timeline?
- Sept. 23, 2008 - open house at Glacier Chamber of Commerce.
- Oct. 9, 2008 - open house at Deming district 2 fire station
- Construction will begin in 2010.
Financial Information
This project is funded through the following fund sources:
- 2005 Gas Tax (Partnership Funding) - $16.6 million
- Total Funding Available From All Sources - $16.6 million
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Communications Dustin Terpening
WSDOT Mt. Baker Headquarters
1043 Goldenrod Road, Suite 101
Burlington, WA 98233-3415
Phone: 360-757-5997
E-mail: Terpenid@wsdot.wa.gov
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