Expect delays on Tucker Avenue durring construction starting Feb. 26

Submitted by the Town of Friday Harbor

Phase two of the Tucker Avenue reconstruction project begins Feb. 26.

Drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians who use Tucker Avenue will enjoy a safer and better quality roadway by late summer.

The project is scheduled to begin on Monday, Feb. 26 and will include new water and sewer lines, road resurfacing, and the addition of bike lanes and sidewalks from Harbor Street to University Way.

The contractor is being asked to expedite the project with as little traffic disruption as possible, however, road closures and detours will be unavoidable. Travelers should expect delays and limited or no access during certain phases of the project which includes removal of portions of existing asphalt, trenching and grading. The public is asked to exercise patience and to make every effort to be respectful of neighborhood residents when using detours in the area. Every effort will be made limit street closures.

Information and updates on the project will be posted as often as possible. Notice of this project timeline and construction updates will be published regularly once the project commences. Questions can be directed to the on-site Project Manager Frank Baublits at fbaublits@g-o.com or town hall at 360-378-2810 with questions or comments. Construction updates will be posted as often as possible.

Street closure: There will be alternating one-way traffic on Tucker Avenue between Feb. 26 and March 12.

The northbound lane between Harbor Street and Larsen Street will remain closed beginning March 13 through the duration of the project. The Southbound traffic on Tucker will be diverted around the work or stopped entirely when road crossings are performed. Flaggers will be on-site during. There will be times when the contractor needs use of the southbound lane and vehicles may experience short delays.

Local access will remain open at all times, however neighbors of the project should anticipate short delays during certain portions of construction. The contractor is making every effort to not be disruptive to the residences in the area.

Detour:

The detour route will remain in effect for the duration of the project. The detour route is posted at www.fridayharbor.org and available at town hall. The contractor will have appropriate detour signage in place. The detour route for this project is Carter Avenue to Larson Street to Tucker Avenue. The public is reminded that the detour route is considered part of the project zone.

The town staff recommends that vehicles traveling to or from the north end of San Juan Island consider using Egg Lake Road to Beaverton Valley Road to Guard Street to help ease congestion and wait times on Tucker Avenue.

Safety:

Pedestrians and motorists should exercise common sense and caution. Be aware of equipment, construction workers, trucks and construction materials. Make sure you are seen while moving within the job site and abide by flagger instructions. The detour route is through a residential zone with school and apartment facilities. Be cautious of children.

Speeding:

The posted speed limit is 20 mph in the construction zone and detour route. Penalties automatically double for traffic violations in construction zones. A ticket for traveling 25 mph in the posted 20 mph construction zone will carry a penalty of $250.