All Roads Lead to Bingen

By: Sarah Hannon-Nein

Where a Mill Town Meets a Modern Need

The small town of Bingen sits quietly along the Columbia River in Klickitat County. For years, the town has relied on the lumber industry and on the river to stay connected and thriving.

But for travelers, workers, and emergency responders, one barrier has stood in their way.

To reach Bingen Point and the Port of Klickitat, drivers must cross railroad tracks that run along the south side of State Route 14. When trains pass through, or stop on the tracks, traffic backs up—causing long delays. For some, these delays can be frustrating. In an emergency, they can be critical.

The City of Bingen has grown quickly in recent years. As the town has grown, traffic on SR 14 has also increased. That makes this project even more important. It addresses today’s traffic concerns and prepares the community for future growth.

But there’s good news. A long-term solution is now underway.

The new roundabout at the intersection of Juniper Street and SR 14 will improve traffic flow and safety for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Keeping Bingen Moving

Late last year, construction started on the SR 14 Bingen and Port of Klickitat Access Improvements project. The key feature is a new underpass beneath the railroad tracks. This allows drivers to travel between SR 14, Bingen Point, and the Port without stopping and waiting for trains.

The underpass under construction on SR 14 in Bingen, allowing traffic to pass beneath the railroad tracks.

The underpass will create a safer and more reliable connection while improving traffic flow. But this project does more than save time. It helps keep people and goods moving safely and smoothly, without unexpected delays.

A Street Named by the People

Before construction began, project designers studied the area near the train tracks. Their goal was to improve travel, reduce congestion and delays and increase safety. They decided that building a new road next to the underpass would give the community more direct access to the port.

In 2023, WSDOT and the City of Bingen attended the annual Huckleberry Festival. Keeping with Bingen's tradition of naming streets after trees, they invited residents to help name the newest street.

The winning name: Juniper Street.

The Roundabout Difference

At the intersection of Juniper Street and SR 14, another key feature is taking shape: a new roundabout.

Roundabouts help keep traffic moving smoothly. They're safer and more efficient for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. By slowing down, yielding, and moving when its safe, drivers reduce backups, lower the risk of serious collisions, and improve travel time.

At the center of this roundabout, a special feature tells the story of Bingen.

The Story at the Center

Located within the heart of the roundabout, a historic pond boat will be displayed as public art. The boat was once used by SDS Lumber Company to move logs along the Columbia River. It was donated to the city of Bingen for this purpose and to honor the town's legacy as a lumber community.

Historic pond boats once used by SDS Lumber Company to move logs, now displayed as public art in the roundabout center

The display is a reminder that while Bingen is growing, it hasn't forgotten its roots.

From Timber to Today

Bingen takes pride in its working-class spirit, cultural and economic diversity, and strong connection to outdoor recreation. This project reflects key parts of Bingen's vision as a rural town along an important transportation corridor.

• Safety: Improving traffic flow and access for first responders and reducing crashes.
• Connectivity: Providing easier, faster access to businesses and recreational opportunities on Bingen Point.
• Community: Inviting residents to help plan the project and name new streets.
• Heritage: Honoring the town's history through meaningful public art.

In Bingen, progress means honoring the past while building a safe, connected, and livable future for everyone.