Date:  Friday, March 14, 2008

Contact: Moe Davari, WSDOT Project Engineer, 509.222.2402
Mike Westbay, WSDOT Communications, 509.728.4712

Walla Walla – On Tuesday, March 18, WSDOT and the contractor will begin the first major traffic revision for construction of the new four-lane section of US 12 from the Frenchtown vicinity to Walla Walla. This safety improvement project will require a portion of Dell Avenue to be permanently closed to accommodate the new US 12 alignment.

Dell Avenue will have cul-de-sacs at each end of the closed section. The remaining sections of Dell Avenue may be accessed on the north side of US 12 from Duncan Lane and Pine Street Extension. Motorists need to be extra cautious to watch for trucks crossing US 12 at Pine Street.

Drivers will be directed through the work zone with signs, cones, barrels and portable message signs. Drivers should expect minor delays.

This section of the US 12 corridor improvement will construct approximately nine miles of new four-lane divided highway. WSDOT will construct four channelized intersections and an overpass with ramps at Pine Street. The project will construct roundabouts at the intersections of the US 12 ramps and the crossroad at the Pine Street overpass.

To view more project details, visit: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/US12/FrenchtowntoWallaWalla/

For the complete construction update report, visit: wsdot.wa.gov/Regions/SouthCentral/Construction/

Note to drivers: We do our best to make work zones safe for workers and drivers by making work zones visible. Drivers need to do their part to help keep everyone safe on our highways by staying awake, alert, sober, keeping both hands on the wheel, eyes on the roadway, obeying speed limits and directions from flaggers. Please "give 'em a brake" by driving slower through the construction zone.

Drivers can now get current 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

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