Hints and Tips -- Plan now for delays

The Yelm Highway Project is a three-dimensional undertaking. Not only is there the obvious widening and repaving, but also much work both above and below ground will be performed before actual roadwork can begin. A 20 foot deep hole will need to be excavated to install a pump station, underground utilities will need to be moved, clearing of the new right of way will need to be done.It is also a multi-jurisdictional task, involving both Thurston County and the City of Olympia.

We would like to be able to do this without impacting the public, but that is not possible. We suggest that if you regularly use Yelm Highway, that you consider allowing extra time for your commutes and investigate alternate routes before construction begins. Due to the number of projects going on in the cities and county over the next many months, and the fact that project schedules can change for many reasons, there will not be published detour routes. There is no plan to close the road entirely at any time, but there could be traffic back ups and delays.



Access to all businesses throughout the length of the project will be available. Intercity Transit will possibly be altering routes and schedules, so you may need to contact them for schedule changes as the project progresses.

As the project construction phase gets closer, keep an eye here and on our website for information and updates.

If you would like to be on the mailing list to receive notifications via the USPS, please contact us at 360-754-4580 or email parsont@co.thurston.wa.us