Construction brings one lane travel to SR 109 near Taholah

Published 1:30 am Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Beginning Tuesday, April 7, the speed limit on state Route 109 will be reduced from 50 mph to 25 mph at the following locations:

Milepost 36.19 to milepost 36.63

Milepost 32.84 to milepost 33.36

Travelers will see temporary traffic lights with single-lane alternating traffic around the clock through fall.

Contractor crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation will build temporary one-lane bypass roads at two work zones. The work zones are located near Moclips Highway and Canyon Way.

The bypass roads will keep people moving while crews replace outdated culverts under the highway.

Work is scheduled to begin at the other two locations in late spring.

In all, this project will replace five outdated culverts under the highway. Two culverts will be addressed within one of the work zones.

The work is an important part of the state’s efforts to protect and restore fish runs. WSDOT is under a 2013 federal court injunction. WSDOT is required to significantly increase efforts to remove barriers to fish. The work will increase the likelihood of fish migration. The improvements also help simulate a natural creek environment.

Crews can only work in the water during a limited time. Construction must occur inside a “fish window.” This is when working in the water will be the least disruptive to aquatic life. The fish window is usually in summer.

Whenever near work zones:

Slow down – drive the posted speeds for worker and traveler safety.

Be kind – workers are out there helping to keep people safe and improve the roadways.

Pay attention – both to workers directing travelers and surrounding traffic.

Stay calm – expect delays, leave early or take alternate routes if possible; no meeting or appointment is worth risking someone’s life.