Purpose & Need
This project was part of Washington's scenic byways improvement program. It was a top priority for the city of Raymond to create a visually appealing community for travelers along US-101 and to introduce travelers to the unique Willapa basin, with its forested hills, natural rivers, tidal estuaries, salt marshes, and pristine bay.
Context
This project is rural in nature and is predominately within residential and small-business land use. The posted speed of US-101 is 55 mph, with speed lowering to 35 mph through the city. This location has potential for additional new development. The project raised environmentally sensitive issues throughout because of the Willapa River, which contains endangered salmon. There are pedestrian facilities in the corridor, and the route serves as a through route to other destinations.
Initial Design Concept
In order to create a visually appealing community for travelers
along US-101, this project has three major components: signage,
landscaping, and interpretation. These components will provide:
o "Gateway to the Willapa" entrance signs at both the
northerly and southerly city limits.
o The landscaping of the corridor from north of the Willapa
Bridge to the Port of Willapa Harbor.
o Interpretive displays and brochures with information on the
local Willapa environment and heritage located at a new
downtown waterfront park located on a site immediately
adjacent to US-101on the south fork of the Willapa River.
o Public restrooms available at the waterfront park.
Funding
Funds for the project were committed by several local agencies.
The city's funding totaled $370,000 for design and construction.
Challenges
- Overcoming perception "top down"
project
- Maintenance and aesthetic issues
- Funding issues
- Selection of displays
- Changes during Implementation
- Community participation
Solutions
- Prepare a public involvement plan
- City will provide maintenance
- Scenic byway improvement
- Communication with all agencies
- Work with various groups to keep
project on schedule
- Selecting displays based on
community desires and needs
Further Reading:
US-101 Landscape and Interpretation Project case study
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