July 2009
Purchase of right of way needed for the Yelm Loop corridor is funded and will be continuing.
The 2005 Transportation Partnership Project program allocated $33 million to fund the design and right of way for this project.
The Legislature supports WSDOT in constructing Stage 1 of the SR 510 Yelm Loop. Stage 1 constructs a new roadway from Mud Run Road to Cullens Road.
Why is WSDOT
making this improvement?
To reduce congestion on Yelm Avenue and First Street, improve freight mobility and safety and improve traffic circulation through the City of Yelm. The new road allows traffic to move more efficiently between Spanaway, Roy and McKenna in Pierce County and destinations in Thurston County.
The End Result
Improved highway system resulting in better mobility in the Yelm area.
Project Benefits
- Safety. Improved safety through downtown core due to less congestion and fewer conflict points. Separated non-motorized pathways will be provided to enhance bike and pedestrian mobility.
- Congestion relief. Motorists using Yelm Avenue and First Streets will benefit from significant improvements in traffic mobility.
What is the project timeline?
In June 2004, WSDOT began the process of updating the environmental assessment and preliminary design that was prepared in 2000 for the City of Yelm. A property owners forum was held in September 2004, and there was a cost risk assessment in October 2004. In April 2005, the legislature provided additional funding for the Yelm Loop project.
Design and environmental work resumed in December 2005. Environmental studies and documentation are under way, including a Biological Assessment in compliance with the Endagered Species Act. An access hearing was held on July 26, 2006. The purchase of Right of way is under way and will continue through 2009
Construction of Stage 1 is funded. Design for Stage 1 is underway. This portion of the SR 510 Yelm Loop project is set to go to ad in October 2009.
Stage 2 remains unfunded.
Financial Information
This project is funded through the following fund sources:
- 2005 Gas Tax (Partnership Funding) - $33,000,000
- Existing Funds - $1,200,000
- Other Agency Funds
High Priority - SAFETEA-LU ($1,713,274)
- Total Funding Available From All Sources - $35,913,274
Unfunded Amount Remaining - $56,059,900
It's important to note the Legislature convenes in January 2009 to consider changes to the transportation budget which may include adjustments to some project schedules.
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Dennis Engel, Project Engineer
WSDOT Olympic Region Plans Office
PO Box 47440,
Olympia, WA 98504-7440
Phone: 360-357-2682
Fax: 360-357-2688
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