Deteriorating conditions of a primary east-west highway through Olympic National Park has officials proposing rehabilitation work to reduce hazards and stabilize the road.

U.S. Highway 101 hugs picturesque Lake Crescent’s south shore on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula in an area that gets about 60 inches of rain per year. The proposed project includes resurfacing a 12.3-mile section of the highway, replacing over 44,000 linear feet of guardrail and replacing drainage structures and retaining walls. Along four miles of East Beach Road, drainage structures will be replaced and pavement conditions improved. Work is scheduled to begin in 2017.

“The Lake Crescent Highway is a vital transportation link and important to the regional economy and quality of life,” Superintendent Sarah Creachbaum said in a release. “Rehabilitating the road is crucial for providing a safe and reliable travel route for area residents and visitors.”

The park, in conjunction with the Federal Highway Administration, is accepting public comments on an Environmental Assessment until April 30. The report outlines two action alternatives and reflects input provided during last year’s public comment period, including the option for night work, no full closure of the highway and advance notification of longer delays. The primary difference between the two action alternatives is that one includes construction at night, which could mean delays of up to six hours. This option, known as Alternative 3, is preferred by the park.

“Last year’s public comment during the early planning stages was invaluable in shaping the EA and proposed alternatives for the project,” Superintendent Creachbaum said. “We invite the public to now review the EA and provide us with their comments and suggestions.”

Locals seeking more information can attend public meetings scheduled for this month:

• Presentations at 5 and 6 p.m. April 18, Port Angeles Senior Center Dining Room, 328 E. Seventh St., Port Angeles, Washington
• Presentations at 4 and 5 p.m. April 19, Rainforest Arts Center, 35 N. Forks Ave., Forks, Washington

To comment

• Deadline: April 30, 2016
• Online: http://parkplanning.nps.gov/Hwy101LCDRAFTEA
• Mail: Superintendent – Highway 101 EA, Olympic National Park, 600 East Park Avenue, Port Angeles, WA 98362
• Email: [email protected]
• Fax: (360) 565-3015