By Pepper Fisher
CLALLAM COUNTY – The rebuilding of an 8-mile section of State Route 112 torn apart by landslides is almost complete, but impatient drivers have been moving DOT barriers and driving through the final section, even as crews are working.
DOT spokesperson Tina Werner says it’s a serious problem.
“We’ve had several instances over the last even 24 hours where trucks and trailers and even recreational users have gone beyond the road closure and just driven through an active work zone where crews are paving. It’s not safe for our crews and it’s not safe for travelers.”
It’s also against the law. We asked if anyone has been cited for this.
“Yes, it is illegal. We have spoken with our partners at the Washington State Patrol and they’re aware of the situation as well. They’re going to be monitoring travelers who go beyond those road closure signs. So for everyone’s safety, we’re pleading with travelers to please, let our crews finish these last few moments of work. They’re working as quickly as they can to get 112 reopened.”
Werner says crews may be able to get the final paving completed by Friday night, but the road will have to remain closed until it has a chance to cure. If drivers continue to go through illegally, it would be a huge setback.
“Yeah, I would say that’s accurate. You know, we are shooting for that target of reopening by end of day, Friday. However, we really need people to not go through a closed work zone, where crews are paving. That will just add to the delay of reopening the highway.”