Project news

• This project was awarded to Tacoma-based contractor, Active Construction, Inc. in Oct. 2020, with construction scheduled to begin spring of 2021.
• Travelers and local residents are encouraged to sign up for Clallam and Jefferson County construction news alerts for project announcements and traffic impacts.

Overview

US 101 between Sequim and Port Angeles is a main arterial highway that connects Olympic Peninsula travelers, freight and local businesses. At Morse Creek specifically, the existing roadway alignment has seen several collisions over the years and needs to be addressed to improve the safety for all travelers. In collaboration with local stakeholders and elected officials, this project will improve safety by constructing a raised, landscaped median, implementing a reduced speed limit to 40 mph and other proven traffic calming measures to reduce the probability of median cross-over incidents and severity of collisions along this curved highway. While collaboration and feedback from encroaching property owners and area residents has been carefully reviewed, it should be noted that there are no operational or turning movement changes to the highway for this particular project. 

Why is WSDOT making safety improvements to US 101 at Morse Creek near Port Angeles?

US 101 just west of Deer Park Loop near Morse Creek in Port Angeles has a history of collisions along the highway. Through a statewide safety analysis and incorporating essential feedback from local stakeholders, this project will construct a raised, landscaped median and targeted speed reduction in an effort to reduce the severity and frequency of collisions. Additionally, the travel lanes will be reduced from 12-feet to 11-feet as a proven traffic calming measure to reduce travel speeds through the corridor.

Needs & benefits

• Improves mobility and safety for all travelers
• Reduces high rates of travel speeds while encouraging safe travel behaviors
• Reduces probability and severity of collisions of cross-over style collisions

Timeline

• Sept. 2020 – Contract advertised for competitive bids
• Oct. 2020 – Contract awarded to Active Construction, Inc.
• Spring 2021  - Construction begins
• Later summer 2021 – Most work complete

Funding

Total project costs (including design and construction costs) will be listed once a contract has been awarded.