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I-5/Sr501 Interchange

08/27/09  Stimulus funds set project in motion - learn more.

I5 501 Interchange mapOverview

This project will improve safety and mobility by replacing the existing I-5 interchange at SR 501 in Ridgefield, widening SR 501 to two lanes in each direction and adding new turn lanes at the interchange, making improvements to the SR 501/56th Place and Pioneer Street/65th Avenue intersections, and adding bike lanes and sidewalks for pedestrian travel.

Project Partners

The City of Ridgefield, with support from the Port of Ridgefield, is the lead agency on this project, and has played a significant role in securing funding for its design. WSDOT is overseeing the design work, environmental analysis, right of way acquisition, and construction administration to ensure it meets state and federal requirements.

The End Result

This project will replace the current interchange at I-5 and SR 501 in Ridgefield with a new interchange; widen SR 501 through the interchange to four travel lanes; add turn lanes, bike lanes and sidewalks for pedestrian travel; and make improvements to the SR 501/56th Place and Pioneer Street/65th Avenue intersections.

Project Benefits 

  • Safety: This project will improve safety in the interchange vicinity by widening the bridge over I-5 to two lanes in each direction, increasing turn lane storage, and by controlling access onto and off of SR 501 at the interchange.
  • Congestion Relief: Replacing this interchange will improve mobility and provide better access from I-5 to the City of Ridgefield and surrounding Clark County.
  • Bicycle and Pedestrian Access: The pedestrian and bicycle connection on SR 501 across I-5 will be improved to provide safer and more efficient access.

What is the project time line?

In February 2006, design, environmental and right of way processes for this project began. It is estimated that the project design, environmental permitting and right of way acquisition will be complete in early 2009. At this time, the project is only partially funded and it will go to construction when fully funded.

PROJECT FUNDING

  • In the 2005 Transportation Partnership Funding Package, $10 million was approved for this project. The 2007 Legislature provided $3 million in additional funds for this project.
  • $14 million in additional funding from state grants, federal earmarks and local impact fees have also been obtained for this project.
  • $2 million from the voter-approved Transportation Benefit District
  • $8.7 million remains to be funded to move the project forward