Ramp meters along northbound SR 167 in Pacific reactivate on Aug. 15

A third ramp meter in Sumner will be activated in the coming weeks

SUMNER – A time-tested tool to help manage congestion is coming back online on northbound State Route 167.

On Monday, Aug. 15, the Washington State Department of Transportation will reactivate two ramp meters along the northbound SR 167 corridor in Pacific.

The ramp meters are located at Jovita Boulevard/Stewart Road and Ellingson Road. These locations were modified to include two metered general-purpose lanes.

A new ramp meter, located at the 24th Street on-ramp to northbound SR 167 in Sumner, will turn on later this summer.

The changes are a part of a congestion-relieving $33 million project that built a new northbound HOV lane on SR 167.   

How ramp meters work

Ramp meters are traffic signals that operate according to real-time conditions on the highway and ramp. The traffic signals provide consistent gaps between vehicles. Ramp meters prevent multiple vehicles flooding the highway at once.

WSDOT will fine-tune ramp meter operations and closely monitor traffic at each ramp following activation. WSDOT’s goal is to balance the needs of drivers merging onto the highway with the needs of drivers already there.

Real-time traffic information is available on the WSDOT statewide travel map, the WSDOT app and WSDOT regional Twitter account.

Slow down on ice and snow.

It's easier to skid or lose control traveling at higher speeds. Give yourself more time to stop.

Carry chains, practice installing them.

Winter conditions could mean chains are required on your route. Practice putting them on your vehicle ahead of time.

Pack your winter car kit.

Carry extra supplies like warm clothing, ice scraper and brush, jumper cables and other emergency items.