US 2 - Stevens Pass West - Unstable Slopes.


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The Stevens Pass summit is at milepost 64.5. There are three locations to be stabilized, just to the west. One is about a half mile from the summit between MP 64.1, 2/10ths of a mile to MP 63.9. The next one is a little more than half a mile further west from MP 63.2 to MP 63, at the left turn in the highway called “Big Windy”. The third location is just around that corner from MP 63 to MP 62.6, which is the first 4/10ths of a mile of the “Old Faithful” avalanche zone.

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  This ditch below the "Old Faithful" avalanche zone will be enlarged.

Status

Fall 2009

This project is in the design phase. It is scheduled to be advertised for private contractor bids in the fall of 2011, with construction to follow in the spring of 2012

This Preservation Program project stabilizes three different rock slopes along US 2, west of Stevens Pass Summit

Why is WSDOT stabilizing these slopes?

This project will reduce the number of rocks from potentially rolling onto the roadway and creating driving hazards. 
 
Stabilization techniques recommended by WSDOT Geotechnical branch and WSDOT contracted consultants Golder Associates includes scaling rocks from the slopes, installing rock bolts, installing cable net, tree removal, trim blasting of the lower slope for ditch enlargement, and debris removal.

The End Result
This project improves safety by reducing the potential for fallings rocks and trees to create a hazard on the roadway.

Project Benefits

  • Safety - Increasing the stability of these rock slopes provides safer driving conditions on US 2
  • Increased snow storage and debris retention due to the widened ditch areas.

What is the project timeline?
The project is currently being designed. It is scheduled to be advertised for private contractor bids in the fall of 2011. Construction will begin in the spring of 2012 over 2 construction seasons

Financial Information
The project is funded through the following sources:                                                              

  • Pre-existing Gas Tax - $6.4 million                         
  • Total Funding from all sources - $6.4 million

How can I get more information?
Contact:
Mitch Reister, Project Engineer
WSDOT North Central Region
1551 N. Wenatchee, WA.  98807
Phone:  (509) 667-3038 to toll free (888) 461-8816
Email:  reistem@wsdot.wa.gov

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