Officials review concepts for interchanges

The potential of a split diamond interchange at Washougal River Road and 27th Street will need federal and/or state financial support to move forward.

Washougal Interim Public Works Director Jim Dunn said funding for the potential $98 million project would be needed for project planning, design, permitting and construction. The process is expected to take up to 10 years.

The option, recommended by Dunn, would include frontage roads with grade separation of railroad tracks at 27th.

Another option recently presented to the Washougal City Council and Port of Camas-Washougal Commission included full diamond interchanges at Washougal River Road and 32nd Street, with grade separation of railroad tracks at 32nd. The estimated cost of that option is $105 million to $120 million.

Option “C” includes a half diamond at Washougal River Road and 32nd, with full frontage roads and grade separation of railroad tracks at 27th. Its cost is estimated at $108 million to $134 million.

Option “D” would feature a full diamond at Washougal River Road and 32nd, with Addy Street extension and grade separation of railroad tracks at 32nd. It has an estimated cost of $109 million.

Mayor Sean Guard said the purpose of a future interchange would be to enhance safety and efficiency for motorists driving onto and off of state Route 14.

The next steps would involve working with the Washington State Department of Transportation and the Southwest Washington Regional Transportation Council and pursuing funding sources, followed by the preparation of environmental documentation and preliminary design.

Port Executive Director Dave Ripp has previously mentioned the possibility of spending $1 million in reserves for non-state funded improvements at SR-14 and 27th and 32nd streets — to improve accessibility to and from the industrial park.