February 2013
- This week's traffic impacts.
- On Dec. 10, traffic shifted to the new, permanent bridge over Butler Creek.
- Crews have temporarily suspended work and returned the US 97 speed limit to 60 mph for the winter.
- Construction started June 25, 2012.
Overview
This project builds a new bridge on US 97 over Butler Creek, nine miles north of Goldendale, and installs eight-foot fences to help guide wildlife to cross underneath the highway instead of running through traffic on US 97.
The crossing also improves fish passage in Butler Creek by removing a fish barrier culvert.
Why is WSDOT
building this wildlife crossing?
The crossing serves two purposes: it reduces the number of animals crossing US 97 and provides 10 miles of additional habitat for fish.
Statewide, more than 1,100 wildlife/vehicle collisions are reported to the Washington State Patrol every year. This section of US 97 runs through an area with a robust wildife population that includes elk, deer and bear.
The sheer number of animals crossing the highway means more chances for wildlife/vehicle collisions.
Animals can also be deterred from crossing because of highway traffic, which affects the quality of local habitat.
Butler Creek provides habitat for steelhead and trout. During low water flow, such as in the summer, the culvert sits too high above the creek and fish can't swim through. During high water flow, the water velocity is too strong for fish to navigate.
The End Result
The chance for wildlife/vehicle collisions is reduced. Wildlife will have safer access to habitat on either side of US 97, and fish will have unrestricted access to upstream habitat.
Project Benefits
- Safety: Fewer wildlife/vehicle collisions.
- Environmental: Improved access to habitat for both wildlife and fish.
What is the project timeline?
WSDOT awarded the contract on May 21, and construction began on June 25. The project is scheduled for completion in spring 2013.
Financial Information
Project signage will reflect the cost of construction engineering, project bid award and sales tax.
2005 gas tax (TPA): $2.9 million
Total funding available: $2.9 million
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Area Engineer Chris Tams
WSDOT Columbia Gorge Project Office
P.O. Box 1709
Vancouver, WA 98668-1709
Phone: 360-759-1310, or toll-free at 1-866-279-0730
E-mail: swGorge@wsdot.wa.gov
Or
Abbi Russell
WSDOT Communications
PO Box 1709
Vancouver, WA 98668-1709
Phone: 360-905-2058
E-mail: Russela@wsdot.wa.gov
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