Travelers of I-405 and residents of Kirkland may have noticed that Washington State Deparment of Transportation (WSDOT) and design-build contractor, Kiewit Construction, are building a new north and southbound lane on I-405 between N.E. 85th Street and N.E. 124th Street as part of the Kirkland Nickel Stage 1 widening project. In addition to adding an extra lane on I-405 through Kirkland, WSDOT has also mitigated for the roadway affects of this project and has improved the environment for fish and wildlife near I-405.
Why is WSDOT enhancing the environment through its roadway projects?
In the I-405 Corridor Program Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), WSDOT commits to leaving the environment better than they found it on all I-405 projects. Carrying out this commitment, WSDOT and Kiewit have constructed environmental improvements through the Kirkland Nickel Stage 1 Widening project.
FORBES CREEK FISH PASSAGE
As part of Forbes Creek Fish Passage, crews built a shorter and larger culvert under I-405 so that resident trout and other wildlife can safely migrate under I-405. The wider culvert provided the opportunity to construct 250 feet of natural streambed at Forbes Creek which enhances surface water drainage, improves downstream water quality, and creates a naturalistic habitat attractive to fish and wildlife.
Trees removed from alongside I-405 in order to widen the freeway were used as part of the woody debris to provide natural habitat for fish and wildlife.
FORBES LAKE WETLAND MITIGATION SITES
WSDOT is restoring two wetland sites. Crews are removing old soil fill and planting thousands of plants, shrubs, and trees at these sites in order to mitigate environmental affects from the project.
WSDOT and our design-build contractor, Kiewit Construction, are planting several thousand trees and shrubs on 20 acres within the I-405 corridor between N.E. 85th Street and N.E. 124th Street and at Forbes Lake and Thrashers Corner. WSDOT chooses the specific size and types of trees and shrubs that have the best record of survival and viability into the future, will grow well in our climate, and are moderate to fast growing plant species.
MAINTAINING ENHANCEMENTS
Kiewit is under contract to monitor the environmental enhancements for three years after construction is complete. This monitoring program includes replanting trees that do not survive during this time period, monthly weed control, bi-monthly watering (during summer months), monthly litter and debris removal, and pruning. Additionally, at the wetland mitigation sites, WSDOT will conduct monitoring for the next 10 years to ensure the sites meet the required performance standards.
For more information or to sign up for e-mail updates, visit www.wsdot.wa.gov/projects/i405.
Amy Danberg is a communications officer with the I-405 corridor program.
[[In-content Ad]]
