Date:  Friday, September 12, 2008

Contact: Bronlea Mishler, WSDOT Communications, 360-757-5947

BELLINGHAM – It’s been a bumpy ride for drivers on the Guide Meridian (SR 539) lately, but that will soon be a thing of the past. Starting Tuesday morning, Sept. 16, crews will switch drivers to new pavement between Horton and Axton roads.

Crews began paving the lanes on the east side of the Guide on Sept. 10. They need to switch traffic to these lanes so they can put down the final layer of asphalt on the lanes to the west.

Crews will stripe the new lanes during the day on Monday, Sept. 15, then adjust the signals that evening. Drivers will be diverted onto the new lanes starting about 3 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16.

Final paving will continue on the remaining traffic lanes for the next two weeks.

In order to ensure a smooth, high-quality roadway, crews will need to limit access to residences and businesses while the asphalt cools. The asphalt is approximately 300 degrees when it is put down. Driving on hot asphalt can permanently damage the road and vehicle paint.

During paving, access to residences and businesses will be restricted for 5 to 10 minutes while the pavement is compacted and cools. Flaggers will be on hand to assist motorists.

For more information about the Guide widening project, visit the project Web page at www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/SR539/HortonTenMile or the Guide Meridian blog, http://guidemeridian.blogspot.com

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