Motorists traveling between Elma and Olympia, Washington, should be aware of lingering impacts from recent winter weather and the completion of a major fish passage project along State Route 8 (SR 8). While all lanes have reopened following the extensive construction, a trace of snow remained visible yesterday afternoon, potentially affecting travel conditions. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) recently concluded a multi-site project aimed at improving fish passage under the highway, impacting traffic for over a year.
The recent work focused on replacing outdated culverts with bridges and larger culverts along both U.S. Highway 12 and SR 8 in Grays Harbor County. This $109 million project not only enhances fish habitat but likewise strengthens the highway’s resilience against earthquakes and flooding, according to WSDOT. The completion of this project marks a significant step in improving infrastructure and environmental sustainability in the region.
Fish Passage Project Wraps Up
All lanes along U.S. 12 and SR 8 are now open after the completion of the fish passage project, which spanned five work zones near McCleary, Elma, and Montesano. Contractor crews reopened the final lanes near Elma on Wednesday, bringing an end to a period of reduced capacity that began in summer 2023. Three other locations in McCleary and Montesano reopened earlier this year. WSDOT expressed gratitude to travelers for their patience during the extended construction period and noted that occasional daytime lane closures may occur as crews complete landscaping and final touches.
During the project, crews strategically built temporary lanes across the median to maintain some level of traffic flow while working on one side of the highway at a time. This allowed for the replacement of nine bridges and one larger culvert, all designed to allow fish to swim freely under the roadways. The new structures are also built to modern earthquake standards, enhancing the overall safety and durability of the highway system.
SR 8 Route Details and Traffic Volume
SR 8 extends 20.67 miles (33.27 km) from U.S. Route 12 (US 12) in Elma, east to an interchange with US 101 approximately 5.90 miles (9.50 km) northwest of Olympia according to the Washington State Department of Transportation. The route intersects SR 108 west of McCleary and serves as a vital connection between Elma and Olympia, forming a corridor between Aberdeen and the Puget Sound region. WSDOT data indicates that more than 17,000 motorists utilize the road daily at the interchange with US 101, based on annual average daily traffic (AADT) data.
The highway was originally part of the Elma – Grand Mound branch of Primary State Highway 9 (PSH 9 EG) from 1937 until 1964. It has undergone several changes over the years, eventually becoming part of the current SR 8 designation.
Current Conditions and Travel Resources
While the major construction is complete, drivers should remain cautious, especially given the recent snowfall. The Washington State Patrol recommends checking current road conditions before traveling, utilizing resources provided by WSDOT as outlined on their website. Real-time travel data for SR 8 between Elma and Rock Candy Mountain is available on the WSDOT Travel Center website here. Road conditions from Olympia to Aberdeen can also be checked on Roadconditions.com.
Looking ahead, WSDOT will continue to monitor traffic flow and address any remaining landscaping or finishing work. The completed fish passage project represents a long-term investment in both transportation infrastructure and environmental stewardship, ensuring a more sustainable and resilient highway system for the future.
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