Crews will dig through sections of highway to remove, replace culverts that block fish from upstream habitat
KAMILCHE – After the Fourth of July, both directions of State Route 108 west of Kamilche will close three separate times for a fish barrier removal project.
What to expect
During each full closure (JPG 3.8MB), a signed detour will direct travelers to US 101 via Mud Bay and SR 8 to McCleary. SR 108 will be closed during these times at following locations:
- 8 a.m. Monday, July 8, to 8 a.m. Monday, July 22: Between West Hurley Waldrip Road and Eich Road.
- 8 a.m. Friday, July 26, to 8 a.m. Friday, Aug. 9: Just west of Eich Road.
- 8 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 14, to 8 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 28: Just west of Eich Road.
Fish barrier removal
All three culverts beneath the highway are considered barriers to fish. Workers will remove and replace them with fish-passable culverts.
Some of the work takes place in the water. The work can only be performed when it’s least disruptive to aquatic life. This often coincides with the busy summer travel season.
This work is part of WSDOT’s 2030 Fish Passage Delivery Plan to open 90 percent of habitat blocked by culverts beneath state highways.
Traveler gratitude
WSDOT thanks travelers for their patience and understanding during each closure. The total closures help reduce the overall timeline of construction. The total closures also reduces the environmental footprint at each location. Crews will work as quickly and as safely as possible to complete the work.
Travel tools
While travelers will see a lot of construction around the Olympic Peninsula this summer, WSDOT has a number of tools to help. Travelers can sign up for email updates about major roadwork on state highways in Mason County. Real-time travel information is available on the WSDOT app and statewide travel map.