In case you can’t tell, we’re really excited about our new roundabout on SR 203

By David Rasbach

Our new compact roundabout along State Route 203 at the intersection with High Rock Road and 203rd Street Southeast south of Monroe is unique, to say the least. With a long, skinny island separated from a circular island by a pass-through lane, even our designers don’t know of any similar roundabouts this small.

From above, it looks like an exclamation point, but we hope people who travel through will come to think of the roundabout as more of comma – a place to slow, take a pause when needed and then proceed on your travels.

A new roundabout opened along SR 203 in late June south of Monroe at the intersection with High Rock Road and 203rd Street Southeast.

Think of it as two roundabouts nested together, and the rules are the same as any other roundabout we’ve built:

• Slow to 15 to 20 mph as you approach.
• Move counterclockwise around the roundabout.
• Yield to vehicles approaching from your left already in the roundabout.
• Larger vehicles may drive over the center islands for tight turns.

Drivers going northbound on SR 203 traffic may need to yield twice – once when entering the roundabout and again if traffic is passing between the two islands. If you think about it, that’s just following the same rules a second time.

If you travel through the area, you may want to check out our video about driving this roundabout.

The SR 203 roundabout slows vehicles that used to approach the High Rock Road intersection at 55 mph.

Roundabouts calm traffic, improve flow and reduce the chances of serious T-bone and head-on crashes. These effects all apply to this stretch of SR 203.

Making a roundabout for everyone

OK, so why does it look so different from any other roundabout?

The design accommodates large vehicles and farm equipment making left turns, fits the existing space and avoids the nearby hill and protected wetlands.

Our engineering team found the unique design was needed to accommodate all the different vehicles that travel through this intersection.

When we began planning, our designers considered a roundabout shaped like a dog bone – long and skinny with “knots” on the ends. They quickly realized that wasn’t going to work.

A lot of large vehicles and farm equipment make left turns from 203rd Street Southeast to northbound SR 203. With a dog bone design, the turn at the southern end would be too tight for these vehicles to make.

Unlike most compact roundabouts, the new roundabout along SR 203 features two center islands with a lane passing between them.

Fitting a roundabout in a tight space

Why not build the center island bigger to create better turning angles for those larger vehicles?

In a word – geography. The new roundabout needed to be built in the same space as the old intersection.

To the east is a steep hill. To the southwest there are protected wetlands. There wasn’t space or budget to mitigate the potential impact in either direction.

With a hill to the eastside of the intersection and protected wetlands just to the southwest, engineers came up with a unique design to help improve safety and traffic flow at the SR 203 intersection at High Rock Road and 203rd Street Southeast.

Making SR 203 safer

We hope people traveling through the new roundabout will adapt quickly to the unique design and follow the same rules they should use at every roundabout. The new intersection is already performing its No. 1 goal of reducing chances of crashes that can lead to serious injuries or worse.

Before construction started, cars flew along this busy rural section of SR 203 between Monroe and Duvall at 55 mph. The intersection is on a curve, adding to the risk people turning from High Rock Road or 203rd Street Southeast could have been hit. SR 203 drivers turning left also faced challenges judging oncoming traffic speed.

National studies have shown that roundabouts create a 37% decrease in overall collisions, while reducing injury crashes by 75% and fatal incidents by 90%.

Despite its unique design, drivers using the new SR 203 roundabout at High Rock Road should follow the same rules in place at any roundabout.

We always monitor and evaluate all changes we make. This new roundabout is no exception, so we’ll be sure it’s working as designed.

Yes, we know – not everybody loves roundabouts. This one requires adjustment, just like any change. But please give this unique little roundabout a chance. Slow down and follow roundabout rules and signs on the road. Make sure you stay distraction free as you drive through the area (and everywhere). And please have patience with others still learning.

We believe you’ll soon enjoy improved safety and traffic flow in the area.

Updates on the new US 2 Trestle PEL study

By: Jennifer Rash

Last summer, we launched a study about the US 2 trestle. We’ve studied this trestle in the past, but this study is different because we’re looking at connections from the trestle to other highways, like I-5. The study will also consider how to improve bike, transit and freight trips around and across the trestle.

Expanded study area that includes the US 2 trestle and other connecting highways, including I-5.

This kind of study is called a PEL—that stands for Planning and Environmental Linkages. One of the most important benefits of this type of study is early input from agencies, tribes, and community members so we can get thoughts on issues and priorities before we develop plans. In fact, we recently collected input from the public and others just to write the study Purpose and Need statement.

What is a Purpose and Need statement?

This statement does two things. First, it explains why we are studying improvements at this specific location. That’s the “purpose” part. Second, it explains the issues that need to be fixed. That’s the “need” part. A bonus benefit is that this Purpose and Need statement can be re-used for the environmental review. That review starts right after the PEL is complete, and having the Purpose and Need statement pre-approved by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) can speed things up.

Public input informed the final Purpose and Need statements

This spring, we hosted an online open house and survey to gather feedback on the draft Purpose and Need statements. Through survey responses and comments, we learned more about how the community travels on or near the trestle.

Over 10,000 people visited the online open house website, and the survey received nearly 4,000 responses. The following graphs and statistics represent a small sample of the data collected. The full online open house and survey summary is available in the study document library.

Most people (around 70%) in the survey said they live on the east side of the trestle.

Most people said they use the trestle to access essential services like grocery shopping and medical visits. Commuting to work was the fourth most popular type of trip.

We wanted to learn about the biggest challenges to traveling on or around the trestle. Traffic back-ups and unreliable travel times were the biggest issues. Lack of detour options and safety were also common answers.

We then asked folks to review the draft Purpose and Need statements. Over 70% of people supported the statements as written. Some people gave us feedback that led to edits. For example, some people were confused about how we used the word equity. People also wanted to include more eastbound trestle concerns. We revised these statements before sending them to FHWA for approval, acknowledging that public input influenced these revisions.

You can view the draft and final Purpose and Need statements in the study document library.

Feelings about tolling

One of our big takeaways was community opposition to tolling, with 75% of survey takers against it. Many were concerned that tolling could negatively affect the cost of living in communities on the east side of the trestle. Around 15% of survey takers supported tolling the trestle, with some saying it could encourage transit use and others that users should pay for improvements to the trestle—as long as the toll is reasonable.

We will consider tolling as a way to address study needs, though we don’t know yet what types of tolling or the potential toll rates we’ll study.

In general, WSDOT is involved in planning, construction, and operations of tolling projects. The Washington State Legislature authorizes toll facilities and determines how to spend toll revenue. The Washington State Transportation Commission sets toll rates and exemptions with an extensive public input process.

What’s next?

We will work with FHWA and our PEL Study advisory groups to develop a list of possible improvements. We’ll start with a lot of ideas and whittle them down to a few concepts to study in the environmental review. The concepts are first evaluated at Level 1. If they meet the Purpose and Need criteria, as well as more detailed criteria, then they are evaluated in Level 2. We plan to share concepts between Level 1 and Level 2 for public comment in early 2025.

To follow along with the study, consider signing up for the WSDOT Snohomish County Newsletter email updates. We also regularly update our study web page and document library. Thank you again to everyone who participated in our online open house and shared their thoughts with us!

Training for success: employment training program for people living on state rights of way is rebuilding lives, boasts 80 percent graduation rate

By: Tina Werner

People often dream about the day they graduate high school, complete a trade program or head off to college. They want to pursue their passions and provide a better life for themselves or their loved ones. They want a future.

For people who are experiencing homelessness, though, that dream isn’t a reality.

People living unsheltered are often concerned with where their next meal will come from, let alone entry into the workforce. Many times, they lack basic items needed for work. Applying for a job requires a permanent address for applications and personal identification. People need computer access to learn about or apply for jobs. A “ just get a job!” approach doesn’t solve those challenges.

That’s where our job training programs come in.

Through the state’s Encampment Resolution Program, we partner with service providers and the state Department of Commerce to transition people living unhoused on state rights of way into safer options . The initial work is happening in King, Pierce, Thurston, Snohomish and Spokane counties. The program includes identifying people’s needs and housing to allow for long-term success. (You can read more about the overall program in a previous blog).

In King and Spokane counties we’ve also added job skills training for some former encampment residents.

State Secretary of Transportation Roger Millar poses for a photo with Jomo Trice, a graduate of the “Tools for Success” training program for people living in encampments in King County. Jomo now works in adult care services and has moved into permanent housing.

Skills and life lessons learned along the way

This training isn’t for everyone living in an encampment. Participants are assessed based on needs and readiness for training. This helps ensure the training will be helpful at this stage of their life.

But the people who have graduated recent programs say it’s invaluable.

“This (program) taught me I have more to offer than what I am giving myself credit for,” said Joshua Price. Price graduated from the Pre-Employment Preparation Program after living in the “Camp Hope” encampment in Spokane. He learned not only job-specific skills but ways to be more stable and successful in other parts of his life. “I gained knowledge and refocused on bettering myself,” he said.

Joshua Price (back row, first from left) stands with fellow Pre-Employment Preparation Program g raduates in 2023. The graduates were previously living unhoused in Camp Hope, one of the state’s largest encampments in eastern Washington. In addition to housing, these graduates obtained job readiness training, identification, case management and mental health support.

Price now works in construction. He is living in emergency housing in Spokane. With a job and place to live, he is focused on improving his relationship with his daughter.

“This class opened my eyes and challenged me for better outcomes,” he said.

Students in the job readiness program receive certifications in OSHA regulations, First Aid and CPR. Students are also trained in forklift operations and flagging (traffic control). This training can allow them to apply for construction or road work jobs. The training is an important step in connecting graduates to potential employers, including us or other local jurisdictions.

Recent Tools for Success students in King County learn the basics of forklift operations as part of their job skills training.

The training programs are delivered by service provider i2 strategies. The program is paid for by our agency as part of the overall Encampment Resolution Program efforts, including funding through the WSDOT Office of Equity and Civil Rights.

In addition to job-specific skills, the program helps students address barriers to employment. Examples include:

• Driver licenses – both written and driving testing or help reissuing lost cards
• Obtaining GED transcripts/documentation
• Addressing mental or behavioral health challenges
• Partnering with local pre-apprenticeship and training programs for employment preparation certificates
• Employment preparation training (workplace expectations, communication skills, resume workshops, interview preparation, etc.)
• Case management support, including tips on how be successful after finding employment.

A job training student selects work boots. All students receive boots upon graduation. Work shoes and professional attire are an essential tool in being able to perform tasks and secure a job.

The training program helps people re-enter the workforce with pride. For some, they have faced years of disruption and now hope to be successful in their first jobs. Students receive help to identify potential careers and interests, prepare for interviews and more. There also is ongoing analysis of the training and student needs after graduation.

Success – by the numbers

These programs have started small to be sure there was enough support for each student. Initial results and individual successes have been encouraging.

In addition to an 80 percent graduation rate, many program graduates have found jobs and are in more safe and secure housing. These successes help stabilize their lives.

2023/2024 job training data for Encampment Resolution Program sites:

• 106 total assessments – individuals’ assessment for program readiness, potential job interests and other job-related barriers that may be present
• 157 service connections – connections include offers of housing, substance use disorder services, GED, behavioral health and legal services.
• 47 people graduated – includes graduates from two pre-apprenticeships in Spokane County, one flagging course and two job readiness courses in King County.
• 80% graduation rate (47 graduates/59 people enrolled)
• 26 graduates employed – total people employed in apprenticeship, flagging or other fields
• 14 graduates living in permanent house
• 15 graduates living in emergency housing
• 7 graduates living in local congregate or other nightly accommodations

*Data provided by service providers as of Aug. 1, 2024. These numbers are specific to King and Spokane County ERP sites.

And the support doesn’t end at the graduation ceremony. Our service providers continue to work with graduates to address challenges like not yet finding a job.

Ongoing support needed to address homelessness

Service providers say flexibility and a safety net of support are keys to helping build more stable lives.

The largest need is for more temporary and long-term housing. Washington’s Encampment Resolution Program works to safely and humanely close sites. This means moving people into secure housing and reducing safety concerns that come with people living along state highways. With our partners we’ve identified strategies that work. These strategies include housing and the job readiness training programs.

This work comes at a cost. We and other state partners do not have unlimited funds to address this need. We continue to share these concerns with lawmakers who set our priorities and budgets.

Our service providers see firsthand how employment training opportunities help people gain self-sufficiency. These programs offer long-term stability, a helping hand and restored dignity to our most vulnerable populations.

And everyone, regardless of their situation or dreams, deserves a chance for a brighter future.

Showing their age: Our rest areas are old and highlight the need for additional highway preservation investments

By: Tina Werner

You’ve likely visited at least one of Washington’s 47 safety rest areas in your lifetime – and some of you may be regular users during your statewide travels.

Maybe you visited the eastbound State Route 8 Elma rest area on your way home from Ocean Shores. Maybe you visited one of the Interstate 90 Winchester rest areas near Moses Lake heading to the Gorge. Maybe you were looking for a spot for your furry friend to stretch their four legs.

The SR 17 Blue Lake rest area near Coulee City offers restrooms, drinking fountains and a picnic area.

Regardless of your destination, our safety rest areas provide a valuable service to the 24 million people who use them each year. Rest areas help improve safety by giving the traveling public, commuters and freight haulers a place to stop and rest for a short period of time. This reduces drowsy driving. They also serve communities throughout the state by supporting the flow of goods and services, tourism and recreation.

But unfortunately, our rest areas are outdated and failing. On average, sites are around 47 years old, with construction dates varying from 1967-2011. If they were people, many would be planning for retirement by now. And, just like people with creaky knees, our rest areas are showing their years of wear and tear.

Recent I-82 Selah and I-90 Sprague closures – and creative solutions

This spring, during a routine inspection of the lagoon-style septic systems, crews discovered tears in the liners at two locations. The liners prevent untreated wastewater from seeping into the ground. The I-82 Selah rest area is 51 years old. The I-90 Sprague rest areas is 55. They are both almost eligible for senior discounts. At our Sprague location, the liner has failed before. This means there are recurring issues to our aging lagoon system. For environmental and safety concerns, the restroom facilities and the RV dump stations at both rest areas were temporarily closed. Portable toilets were provided.

Initial estimates for repairs were $2.2 million for Selah and $3.4 million for Sprague. We don’t have the funds to fully repair these locations within our existing operational budget. The funds aren’t available to us as facility improvement projects either. So, we had to get creative. Just like the problem-solving tv show, our planned fixes are “MacGyvered” worked arounds – not full solutions.

Throughout the summer months, contractor crews will remove and dispose of the damaged liners and install new ones.

It’s good news the rest areas will restore full service for travelers. But the not-so-great news is that because we’re not funded for needed repairs, this unexpected work means other critical projects will be delayed or canceled to pay for them.

Crews make repairs to the lagoon-style septic system liner at the Selah rest area in July 2024.

 In September, crews began to pump water from the I-90 Sprague Rest Area lagoon to make necessary repairs. Additional repairs will continue through fall.

The rest areas are expected to resume full operations this fall.

How did we get here?

Before you write in all caps, ‘JUST TAKE CARE OF IT!’ – we hear you. Our rest area attendants and maintenance crews work hard within the budgets provided and take pride in their service. Think of it like a home. Many of these rest areas are over 50 years old. Little to no major renovation work has been done in their lifetime, because we don’t have funding for that. Like your home, if you didn’t do important maintenance for 50 years, you’d see the pipes burst or a roof fail.

Our maintenance and preservation budget has been underfunded for decades. This has resulted in a backlog of work needed to keep our transportation system operating fully. We do our best with the funding the Legislature gives us. We also continue to work with state leaders to communicate our needs and the risks of not doing necessary work.

We have taken steps to reduce costs and extend the life of our facilities. We’ve patched roofs (instead of replacing them) and completed minimal waterline maintenance (instead of repairing or replacing entire systems). But those short-term fixes only work for so long.

Some repairs can be done at minimal cost; others are more expensive. For example, the I-5 Silver Lake Safety Rest Area closed in late 2019.The failing roof posed safety concerns for staff and guests. The roof can’t be repaired again, so it requires a costly replacement. The site remains closed while we complete a truck parking study. The Legislature requested we do this study to see if we can expand available truck parking options. Even a plan to convert the Silver Lake location to solely truck parking and demolish the rest area entirely, though, would cost over $5 million. We do not have those resources. We expect to have results from the study in December 2024. Then we can work on preliminary decisions for the site.

Damage to the walls and roof at the Silver Lake rest area forced us to close the location for public safety.

Without more investments into rest areas, we’ll see more closures in the coming years. If we had the resources to make more substantial repairs or completely renovate a facility, we would. We hear from the public daily about their experience and feedback at our rest areas. We’ve worked to stretch our dollars as far as possible, but now all we can do is try to reduce the rate of deterioration.

Facility concerns foreshadowed in our strategic plan

In 2023, we updated our safety rest area strategic plan – the first major update since 2008 – to address these concerns and chart a future for the program.

We know the needs of travelers have changed over the years. That’s why we conducted public outreach to more than 5,300 people across the state when drafting the plan. The population has grown. More people are driving electric vehicles. ADA and other accommodations are needed to serve all travelers – including items like adding infant changing stations to men’s restrooms (yep, we see you fellas!).

The rest area plan does not call for adding or closing any existing locations, but it does highlight the ongoing needs to keep them working. 87 percent of our rest areas were rated as “critical condition” in 2021. More than half of the buildings will be 50 years or older by 2031. The study also identified $375-$525 million needed over the next fifteen years to upgrade or renovate these aging buildings.

We shared findings with the public and state lawmakers last fall. This new plan will be used to guide conversations with state leaders – who set our budget – going forward. With the price tag and many competing needs, though, there is no easy or overnight solution.

Taking care of what we have

The day-to-day operations of our rest areas continue even with these funding concerns. Many guests say our rest areas are their first impression when they visit. We work hard to make it a good one. Our rest area attendants work hard to restock and clean sites multiple times a day for 24 million visitors a year. Maintenance work often includes mowing, repairing picnic benches, litter removal, repainting or repairing broken restroom amenities.

A maintenance crew member mows the grass as part of maintenance at the I-5 Scatter Creek rest area in Thurston County.

What’s next?

We will continue to work with lawmakers who set our rest area budgets.

We know that rest areas conditions, safety and amenities are a real concern for people – we use them too. We will continue our “MacGyver” work to keep them running as best as possible with the resources we have. At some point, if we continue crafting one-of-a-kind repairs and not fully funding these needs, it may turn into a complete closure. No one wants that. Please be patient with us during emergency and unplanned closures. Know we’re working as fast as we can with the resources available.

If you have questions about how other states manage their rest area operations, funding or privatization, check out our 2023 safety rest area strategic plan for details.