Roadwork ahead: Online open house gives 2023 work zone preview for Jefferson and Clallam counties

Busy construction season requires extra planning for travelers

PORT ANGELES – Travelers near and far with Washington’s majestic Olympic Peninsula in their sights will want to plan ahead and stay engaged as the 2023 construction season begins.

From February through fall, a multitude of preservation, safety and culvert replacement projects will take place on US 101 and State Routes 104, 19, 20 in Clallam and Jefferson counties.

The Washington State Department of Transportation has created an online open house that highlights each project, provides additional resources such as project web page links, maps, and important resources for all travelers to plan, prepare and stay engaged during their journey.

"We recognize the number of work zones that drivers will navigate this year is more than what people are used to," said Region Administrator Steve Roark. "This year it's critical for travelers to plan ahead and be prepared for extra travel time."

The online open house provides a forum for travelers to gather information and ask questions. The open house offers links to sign up for updates, as WSDOT will share details about each specific project before and during construction.

North Olympic Peninsula online open house information

When: February 2023 to January 2024
Where: engage.wsdot.wa.gov/north-olympic-peninsula-2023-construction/

Access for participation

Free, temporary internet access is available to those who do not have broadband service in locations throughout the state. To find the nearest Drive-In WiFi Hotspot visit: www.commerce.wa.gov/building-infrastructure/washington-state-drive-in-wifi-hotspots-location-finder/

Work zone safety

With over 20 potential work zones across the Olympic Peninsula, travelers are encouraged to:

  • Slow down – drive the posted speeds, they're there for your safety.
  • Be kind – our workers are out there helping to keep you safe and improve the roadways.
  • Pay attention – both to workers directing you and surrounding traffic; put your phone down when behind the wheel.
  • Stay calm – expect delays, leave early or take an alternate route if possible; no meeting or appointment is worth risking someone's life.

166,800 electric vehicle

registrations in Washington in 2023, up from 114,600 in 2022.

87 wetland compensation sites

actively monitored on 918 acres in 2023.

25,000 safe animal crossings

in the Snoqualmie Pass East Project area since 2014.