Meridian 25mph at 280th Street fish passage construction

EATONVILLE – Travelers who use State Route 161 between Eatonville and Graham in Pierce County will see changes to the roadway this week.

What to expect
The speed limit on SR 161 between mileposts 14.5 and 15.2 is lowered from 55 mph to 25 mph. (Roughly 274th to 280th)

Temporary traffic signals will be in place around the clock starting with the afternoon commute Wednesday, July 23.

Crews will begin testing the traffic signals as early as 3 p.m.
Travelers can expect delays of up to 10 minutes while workers test the signals and shift traffic to the temporary single lane bypass road.
At the traffic signal, a push button will allow for longer travel time between signals for bicyclists.

This work is weather dependent and subject to change. Real-time travel information is available on the WSDOT app and statewide travel map.

Why this is happening
This work is part of a fish passage improvement project. The existing culverts are a barrier to fish. The construction will open potential habitat for coho, steelhead and resident trout in South Creek’s tributary.

Travelers are encouraged to sign up to get email updates for state highways in Pierce County.