SR 14 - Access Improvements - Complete November 2019

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Why did WSDOT improve access to SR 14 near Washougal?

Access to and from the SR 14 corridor through Washougal was limited, affecting safety and economic development. Project improvements enhanced the roadway system to provide better access to SR 14 within the corridor, balancing the needs of all users.

In fall 2019, two new roundabouts on State Route 14 in Washougal opened to traffic. On Wednesday, Oct. 30, the Washington State Department of Transportation, the city of Washougal, the Port of Camas-Washougal, elected officials and members of the community celebrated the functional completion of the SR 14 Access Improvements project with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Public involvement

In fall 2016, community members provided input about the project at an open house, and via an online survey. The information gathered helped to determine project priorities and develop design options. On Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2017, hundreds of community members attended a second open house at the Port of Camas-Washougal to learn more about the proposed project design options and provide input. Additionally, WSDOT hosted numerous meetings with stakeholders to help inform the design of this project.

Existing issues

Safety: A history of collisions at the intersections of SR 14 at 15th Street and 32nd Street
Access/connectivity: The current configuration of the SR 14 and 32nd Street intersection limits freight and local traffic access to and from Washougal via SR 14.
Economic development: Freight travel in and out of the Port of Camas-Washougal is limited due to the current highway configuration.

Why roundabouts?
Roundabouts at these locations offer the greatest safety benefit by reducing the potential for severe collisions, while improving connectivity and economic development opportunities along the corridor. Construction of a roundabout at 32nd Street will restore use of the intersection from all directions.

Roundabout Benefits
Studies have shown that roundabouts are safer than traditional stop sign or signal-controlled intersections. The Federal Highway Administration determined that roundabouts can increase traffic capacity by 30 percent to 50 percent compared to traditional intersections. Want to learn more? Roundabout videos are available on YouTube.

The End Result
Improving access to the corridor will help to ensure the safety of the traveling public through this stretch of highway and will promote economic vitality in the region.

Project Benefits

Safety: Enhance safety and reduce collisions
Mobility: Provide better freight and local traffic access in and out of Washougal via SR 14
Economic development: Improved access allows for economic development in the City of Washougal

What is the project timeline?

Summer 2016:

Develop design alternatives
Determine project priorities

Fall 2016 - Spring 2017:

Host open houses to present alternatives to the public
Refine & screen alternatives
Gather environmental data

Summer 2017 - Spring 2019:

Obtain environmental permits
Right of way negotiations and acquisitions
Develop final plans, specifications and estimates
On Tuesday, April 9, this project was awarded to Thompson Bros. Excavating, Inc.
Construction begin Wednesday, May 29, 2019

Fall 2019