Busy Richland Intersection Planning Is Moving Forward

It's getting to be spring and summer and that means new roadway construction for Richland as they are eyeing improvements on one of the busiest intersections in town.

One of our busiest intersections is on the hit list for the City of Richland.

The City of Richland is moving forward with planning efforts on the South George Washington Way Intersection Improvements Project.

A press release from the city discusses the project and what it means to the motorists who use George Washington Way and it could mean some great adjustments if you drive GW Way a lot.

Here are the benefits of the upgrades:

This project will assist in reducing traffic congestion and improving travel efficiency through central Richland.
It includes upgrading and reconfiguring the intersection of George Washington Way and Columbia Point Drive to improve safety, capacity, and mobility for vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian travel.
This project will be in partnership with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and any proposed changes to the intersection must be authorized by WSDOT.

For that reason, it is beneficial that the project development work is done in accordance with WSDOT procedures and by a specialized engineering firm.

On January 19, 2021, Richland City Council is expected to approve a contract with Spokane firm, H.W. Lochner, Inc., to perform the analysis of existing and future projected user volumes, alternative development and comparison, public engagement, and preliminary engineering concepts.
Funding for the first phase, which will complete the planning work in accordance with WSDOT-specified processes, has been identified. The total cost of the proposed agreement will be no more than $194,705.
The funding for this work consists of federal grant funds and $47,250 from City Real Estate Excise Tax (REET).

You can expect the opportunity to provide input on this effort with a future on-line open house and other outreach activities if you live in the City of Richland.

Updates on the project are available at www.ci.richland.wa.us/capitalprojects.