Date:  Thursday, June 19, 2008

Contact: Joanna Lowrey, Columbia Gorge Assistant Area Engineer, (360) 759-1310 (Vancouver)
Abbi Russell, WSDOT Communications, (360) 905-2057 (Vancouver)

VANCOUVER – Two loop ramps connecting I-205 and SR 500 will be completely closed Saturday and Sunday for construction, announced the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). Crews will conduct striping operations and put the finishing touches on the project, which is aimed at improving safety and easing congestion on this section of SR 500.

From 7 a.m. on Saturday, June 21 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, June 22, the westbound SR 500 ramp to southbound I-205 and northbound I-205 to westbound SR 500 loop ramps will be closed to all traffic. The southbound I-205 to westbound SR 500 on-ramp and the ramp to Fourth Plain Boulevard and Westfield Shoppingtown Vancouver will remain open.

Crews will be working around the clock to complete activities within the 33-hour timeframe. The work is weather-dependent. In the event of dry weather, WSDOT will open the ramps as quickly as possible once work is finished.

Advanced warning signs will be placed ahead of the construction area, and motorists are asked to observe and adhere to the posted speed limits when driving through the work zone. Motorists are also reminded that all traffic fines are doubled within a construction work zone when workers are present (RCW 46.61.527).

For weekly updates on this and all other state traffic impacts in the region, please visit the WSDOT Southwest Region Weekly Travel Advisory Web page: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Regions/SouthWest/Construction/default.htm.

For more information about the SR 500 – I-205 Interchange Project, please contact WSDOT’s Columbia Gorge Area Engineering Office by phone (360-759-1310), by e-mail (swGorge@wsdot.wa.gov) or visit the project Web page at: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/SR500/I205Interchange. 

                                                       ###

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