Trio of short-term projects coming to North Central Washington roads this spring and summer

WENATCHEE – With the arrival of warmer temperatures comes a sight that’s as familiar to spring travelers in north central Washington as the winding roads and rapidly changing weather: Crews repairing pavement following the harsh freeze and thaw cycles of winter.   

Starting in mid-May, contractor crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation will begin repairing pavement on US 97 and State Route 26 between Tonasket and Oroville, Royal City and Vantage. Work will pause in June and restart in July and August.

“We’re going to chip seal several areas which involves placing a mixture of asphalt and water followed by crushed gravel that is then compacted,” said Washington State Department of Transportation Assistant Project Engineer Justin Hammond. Other areas with smaller breaks in the pavement will be repaired by adding adhesive filler to them in a process known as crack sealing. Chip sealing and crack sealing are cost-effective methods to repair pavement, extend its life and provide a smoother driving surface for travelers.

During this $7.9 million project, travelers on these stretches of highway will encounter flagger-controlled work zones during daylight hours with delays of about 20 minutes. Work at each location is expected to last just a few days.

SR 26 east of Vantage

• mileposts 0 to 18.

SR 26 near Royal City

• mileposts 18 to 31

US 97 between Tonasket and Oroville

• mileposts 315 to 326

Travelers can keep track of work locations and travel delays by visiting WSDOT’S real-time travel map.