Rebuilding ramps makes way for improved fish passage, helps keep people moving
BREMERTON – Travelers are now using a new highway exit at the State Route 3/Chico Way Northwest interchange near Bremerton. The development is the next phase in the construction project to remove barriers to fish at Chico Creek.
Ramp specifics
The southbound SR 3 exit to Chico Way Northwest was rebuilt to connect to a new bridge. The new bridge carries Chico Way Northwest travelers over a future path for a tributary to Chico Creek. The new ramp also restores the ability to turn left onto Chico Way Northwest. While the new highway exit has opened, the Chico Way Northwest on-ramp to southbound SR 3 remains closed into spring 2023.
Limiting travel disruption by rebuilding ramps
The existing southbound ramps and all lanes of SR 3 at Chico Way have culverts underneath that are barriers to fish. Instead of excavating the entire highway and ramps, crews are rebuilding each ramp. This reduces the inconvenience to most highway users.
The new ramps create space for realigned sections of Chico Creek and a tributary to Chico Creek. Both streams will be rerouted under a new bridge spanning all lanes of SR 3.
The project is part of WSDOT’s ongoing efforts to remove barriers to fish. The $57.6 million project is expected to be complete in winter 2023.
Real-time traffic information is available on the WSDOT statewide travel map, the WSDOT app and WSDOT regional Twitter account.