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Needs & benefits

Why is WSDOT removing barriers to fish on Olsen Creek?

Correcting fish passage barriers is an important part of the state's efforts to protect and restore fish runs negatively affected by outdated culverts under state highways. The existing culvert was identified as a barrier to fish. Installing a larger box culvert allowed the creek to flow more naturally under the highway and improve fish habitat for the area. This fish passage project is one of about 1,000 culverts across the state that was mandated to be replaced. In 2013, the U.S. District Court for Western Washington ruled that the state must remove culverts that block fish passage under state highways. 

Overview

WSDOT removed two small culverts under State Route 112 near Olsen Creek and replaced them with a 55 foot pre-stressed concrete girder bridge intended to improve fish habitat. 

The End Result

Olsen Creek will be restored to a more natural, free-flowing state resulting in improved fish passage for local migratory fish. This will bring the stream crossing into compliance with the U.S. District Court ruling. The potential habitat gain for this project is nearly two miles.

Timeline

• March 5, 2018 - Construction contract awarded to Interwest Construction, Inc.
• June 2018 – Construction begins
• Oct. 2018 – Project complete and new bridge open to traffic.

Funding

• Pre-existing funds: $3,503,000
• Total cost: $3,503,000