The Washington State Department of Transportation released their proposed 2019-2022 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) outline and has named six proposed projects in Pacific County.
Mill Creek Bridge
The bridge on Mill Creek near the juncture of SR 6 and Camp One Road is proposed to be completely replaced as the state has deemed the bridge structurally obsolete. The project is estimated to cost just over $6 million.
Mill Creek Road has been the scene of several projects over the past few years. Earlier in 2018 the river eroded the roadway and had to be repaired during the spring. Pacific County Public Works also applied for a special permit to remove sediment in the river allowing the river to flow away from the roadway.
ADA Projects
Several ADA upgrade projects are a part of the STIP with Raymond being the lone local municipality with a project slated. The project is proposed for upgrades at the area US 101 and SR 105. Another project is proposed for the Niawiakum River and US 101 from the bridge to Franklin Street.
Tokeland
The Pacific Ocean has been slowly eroding the embankments along SR 105 between Raymond and Tokeland as far north as Grayland. Upgrades and repairs to the roadway are proposed in the STIP. The project would install a "rip rap" to stabilize and enhance roadway embankment. The exact location of the project is not specified.
Another roundabout?
After construction completed on the US 101/SR 6 roundabout locals began hearing details of another proposed roundabout at Heath St/US 101. No local roundabout projects are a part of the 2019-2022 proposal. A number of other cities and towns have had roundabouts proposed including Aberdeen. DOT could add a roundabout project to the draft, but sources have stated it is "highly unlikely at this time."
Chances to voice opinions and concerns remain
Public comment is being accepted from November 20 to December 20 and public hearings are expected to be held before final approval is expected on the STIP proposal. Other projects could be added before final approval is made. DOT invites anyone with questions or concerns regarding the STIP to contact them so no questions are left unanswered.
Written comments regarding the draft can be sent to: Nancy Huntley, WSDOT, P.O. Box 47390, Olympia, WA 98504-7390, email: Huntlen@wsdot.wa.gov , or by fax at 360-705-6822.
Local municipalities receive TIB Grants
The Cities of Raymond and South Bend have also been awarded Transportation Improvement Board (TIB) grants for local improvements. Raymond received a grant to repair Franklin Street in the River View area. The area has degraded over time and has become a "bumpy ride" according to residents that live in the area.
South Bend was awarded a grant to repair and improve the area of Willapa Avenue and First Street to Rixon and was awarded in the amount of $313,236. According to South Bend Public Works Director Dennis Houk South Bend has six major projects slated to start in 2019.