Planning study news
WSDOT is planning to create fish passages at two locations on State Route 503 Spur. The first location is at milepost 35.70, where a small stream flows into Dog Creek, and the second location is at milepost 35.85, where Dog Creek itself is crossed. These locations are in Cowlitz County, which is part of WSDOT’s Southwest region.
Purpose
Both culverts need replacement. The proposed project will swap out the existing pipe and box culvert with fish-passable structures.
The current culverts block fish completely. Replacing these culverts and fixing the stream will allow fish to reach important areas for spawning. The new culverts will also help reduce the backwater effect that has recently been damaging the road. The new design will handle normal water flow and support natural changes in the stream. Plus, there will be more space for maintenance, so machinery can more easily access and work under the culverts.
Community benefits
- The current culverts are not working properly. Since this area is very important for travel, we need to replace the culverts to keep transportation reliable and efficient for everyone.
