Date:  Thursday, March 13, 2008

Contact: Colin Newell, WSDOT Project Engineer, (360) 740-8603 (Chehalis)
Sylvia Ross, WSDOT Communications, (360) 905-2058 (Vancouver)

CHEHALIS – Contractor crews will complete repairs and reopen State Route 6 near Pe Ell (milepost 27) to traffic on Sunday, March 16, announces the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT).

After four months of labor-intensive repair work, construction crews have been able to successfully secure the previously unstable slope on SR 6, allowing for a safe passage for motorists traveling on this section of highway.

“Crews did a tremendous job repairing this slope safely and efficiently. Our goal was to assure the safety of the traveling public and crews while attempting to minimize the inconvenience to the local community,” said Don Wagner, Regional Administrator for the Southwest Region of WSDOT. “Also, I would like to thank the community for their patience in navigating through the construction zone while work was going on,” Wagner added.

Repair work began on January 28, consisting of removing approximately 100,000 cubic yards of debris from the slope adjacent to the highway, and regrading the remaining slope for further stability. WSDOT geotechnical engineers examined the slope and determined that this was the best way to secure the unstable slope and enhance safety to the traveling public.

The closure began December 3, 2007 after the December storm caused a major landslide at this location, cutting off access to motorists and creating severely dangerous conditions on the slope above the highway. 

                                                     ###

Drivers can now get real time traffic and weather information by dialing 5-1-1 from most phones. This new traveler information system builds upon the highly successful Washington State Highway hotline that managed 4.6 million calls each year. Callers can also use 5-1-1 to get statewide construction, mountain pass condition, and state ferry system information, as well as toll free numbers for passenger rail and airlines. TTY users can call 1-800-833-6388.

< Back to News Home