Beginning in mid-July 2012, Federal Highway Administration will undertake repair of the Crown Point Viaduct and restoration of pavement and rock features along the Historic Columbia River Highway (HCRH) between Larch Mountain Road and Latourell Falls. The schedule for construction and types of traffic control are detailed below.
When will construction occur? Construction will occur in two phases, with the first phase running from mid-July 2012 through Winter 2012/2013. The second phase will begin on or about April 1, 2013 and be completed by July 2013.
What types of traffic control will be needed? Given the unique nature of this construction, partial and full road closures will be necessary. Travel delays can be expected throughout the two construction periods. Planned traffic controls include:
- Mid-July – August 2012 – The Historic Columbia River Highway (HCRH), Historic Route 30 will be open to all traffic; travel delays of up to 20 minutes can be expected with periodic lane closures. No lane closures will occur between Friday at noon until Sunday at midnight. Vista House will be open.
- September 4, 2012 – September 30, 2012 – The HCRH between Larch Mountain Road and Crown Point will be closed to vehicles longer than 25 feet. The HCRH between Crown Point and Latourell Falls will be closed to all vehicles, including bicycles and pedestrians. Access for local residents will be permitted beyond the Latourall Falls closure point. Vista House will be open to the public to the public.
- October 1, 2012 – December 31, 2012 – There will be no access to Crown Point/Vista House, as the HCRH will be closed to all vehicles at both Larch Mountain Road and at Latourell Falls. The portion of the HCRH between Bridal Veil Falls and Latourell Falls will be closed to vehicles longer than 25 feet. Vista House will be closed to the public.
- January 1, 2013 — April 1, 2013 – The HCRH will be open to all traffic; some travel delays with periodic lane closures may be required.
- April 1, 2013 – May 23, 2013 — The HCRH will be periodically closed to all public traffic (including bicycles and pedestrians). Access for local residents will be permitted beyond the Latourell Falls closure point. Specific traffic control measures will be developed following the 2012 construction season.
