Tamara Greenwell, communications, 360-905-2056
Bart Treece, communications, 360-905-2058
YALE – Relief is in sight for drivers who use State Route 503 near Speelyai Bay Road. One lane of the highway will reopen to traffic at 5 p.m. Monday, May 8.
Following a series of rock blasts to stabilize an estimated 20 million-pound rock slab, Washington State Department of Transportation engineers evaluated the hillside and determined it is safe to allow traffic back on one lane of the highway. SR 503 has been closed since Monday, March 13, when a portion of the hillside slid onto the highway, also known as Lewis River Road.
“We’d like to thank everyone for their patience,” said WSDOT project engineer Lori Figone. “We know this is a vital stretch of road for many folks and appreciate your understanding as we continue work to stabilize the slope.”
While contractor crews continue slope stabilization efforts, a temporary barrier will be installed to separate traffic from the hillside. The barrier creates a safe workplace for crews while also protecting drivers.
Traffic on both directions of the highway will alternate through a single-lane, around–the-clock with a temporary signal. Flaggers will move traffic through the work zone during work hours, Mondays through Saturdays, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. The speed limit also will be reduced to 25 mph to help improve safety for all highway users.
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