PORT TOWNSEND — Local traffic will get a lot worse before it gets better, as separate road projects are in progress at either end of town.
Construction of the second roundabout at Thomas Street and Sims Way — state Highway 20 — began last week, with detours scheduled to begin today.
At the same time, the start of the downtown streetscape project has been postponed one week, until May 1.
Both projects will cause traffic slowdowns, forcing both local residents and tourists to allow extra time to reach their destinations.
The roundabout construction is a shorter-term project, scheduled for completion prior to the heaviest tourist season.
But the streetscape project, because of its scope and location, has a larger impact on a greater number of people for a longer time.
The multiphased streetscape project is located in a historical district that also serves as a commerce center, forcing the city to accommodate different needs.
For instance, the repaving of Madison Street will be done in stages to provide constant access to the businesses in proximity to the construction.
And in September, which is prime festival season, the construction will take a hiatus.
“Because of the film festival and other events, we will shut down in September,” said project manager Tom Miller.
“We will establish safe routes around what we have done at that time, so people can have access.”
By then, the waterfront park could be completed with a sculpture, Gerard Tsutakawa’s “Salish Sea Circle,” already in place.
With all the delays and the accommodation of scheduled events, Miller can’t say when parts of the project will be done, but he hopes the entire streetscape effort will be completed by Jan. 1.
Miller has established what he believes to be a realistic schedule, but he admits “there are always things that you don’t anticipate making things take longer than expected.”
If building the streetscape resembles a careful walk downtown, the roundabout more resembles a sprint.
Beginning today, inbound traffic will be rerouted along Fourth Street while outbound cars will use one lane on Sims Way.
How traffic routes will change the pattern cannot be predicted, according to Bruce Seton Jr., who is running the project.
Development Review Engineer Samantha Trone expects the roundabout to be completed by the end of May.
Following this, the median strips, landscaping and final paving will occur.
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Jefferson County Reporter Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or at charlie.bermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
