Project news

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Overview

WSDOT contractor crews will replace three culverts that pass under State Route 202 between Redmond and Fall City. The culverts for Patterson Creek and two unnamed tributaries to Patterson Creek pose a barrier for fish migration because the water flows too fast, is too shallow, and /or drops too rapidly.

When the culverts are removed and replaced with fish-friendly structures, miles of rearing and spawning habitat that became inaccessible when the roadway was built will be opened up again. Local stream restoration work, including more natural streambeds and planting of native shrubs and trees, will provide better habitat for the salmon and trout who use the streams, and will also be more inviting to other local wildlife.

A culvert replacement for Evans Creek under SR 202 originally was included in this contract, but has been deleted and will be scheduled as a separate project at a later date.

Needs & Benefits

• Environmental: Replacing the culverts restores the creeks to a more natural state and improves passage for resident and migratory fish and aquatic life.
• Compliance: These culverts are subject to the 2013 U.S. District Court injunction, requiring the state to remove culverts that block fish passage under state roads.

Timeline

• October 2018: Project was advertised for competitive bidding.
• April 2019: Design/build project was awarded to Hamilton Construction Co.
• Aug. 28-31, 2020: SR 202 closed east of 244th Avenue Northeast to replace a culvert. 
• Sept. 11-14, 2020: SR 202 closed east of 308th Avenue Southeast to replace two culverts.