OLYMPIA – Spring is here, and with it – the deadline to remove studded tires before end of day Friday, March 31. The Washington State Department of Transportation encourages all drivers to plan head now to avoid a potential fine of $137, which could be issued by the Washington State Patrol starting as soon as Saturday, April 1.
Studded tires are legal in Washington from Nov. 1 to March 31. There is no individual exception or “out of state waiver” to the studded tire dates.
“Studded tires cause between $20 million to $29 million in damage to state-owned roads in Washington each winter and also damage city and county roads,” said WSDOT Maintenance Operations Manager James Morin. “We urge motorists to explore all their traction options, including non-stud, winter-tread tires which are different from all–season tires. These tires are legal year-round and don’t damage our highways.”
State law gives WSDOT the authority to extend the deadline when circumstances call for it, most commonly when a forecast indicates widespread snow and ice. While late season storms are possible in the mountain passes, there are no forecasted statewide conditions that would call for an extension to the deadline. For mountain travel, WSDOT recommends drivers use approved traction tires and carry chains, if necessary.
Real-time road conditions are available before heading out. Travelers are encouraged to stay up to date on changes by using WSDOT’s social media and email alert tools.
Washington and Oregon share the same studded tire removal deadline. Other states may have different studded tire removal dates, but the Washington law applies to all drivers in the state, even visitors.
More information about studded tire regulations in Washington is available online.
OLYMPIA - The Washington State Department of Transportation is searching for a missing plane in rugged forest land near Queets that abruptly dropped off radar Monday evening.
WSDOT Air Search and Rescue was notified of a missing 2006 Cessna T182 Turbo Skylane piloted by Rod Collen on Monday evening. Search efforts began that night and has included air searches on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday when the weather permitted safe flying conditions. Law enforcement and others have been patrolling roadways in the last known position area as well.
Collen left the Tacoma Narrows Airport at 5:35 p.m. on Monday; and a few minutes into the flight the plane’s Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) system was either turned off or malfunctioned and the plane was no longer visible on normal tracking systems the air traffic controllers use. With the help of a specialized radar forensics team, primary radar returns were located that placed the aircraft near the coast between Lake Quinault and Queets. The final radar plots show the aircraft made a very rapid descent to the ground. Collen was the only one in the plane.
No signal has been detected from the plane’s Emergency Locator Transmitter since it went off radar, but search officials have narrowed the search area to a 36-square-mile section of forest land with rugged terrain and some logging activity. The amount of snow on the ground has hampered searchers’ ability to spot the plane from the air. Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Deputies and Quinault Natural Resources crews have patrolled roads near the areas but the section is too large and rugged to send in ground search crews until the search can be narrowed to a more specific site.
The area where the plane descended is on Quinault tribal land near Queets near the Jefferson and Grays Harbor county line. The area is on the Olympia Peninsula along Washington’s coast.
The search remains active, but crews are waiting for new developments or a weather change before flying search aircraft again. Anyone who thinks they saw or heard the plane Monday or spotted anything in the area should call the State Emergency Operations Center at 800-258-5990 with details. The plane’s tail number is N24289. At this time search officials do not need volunteers to conduct either air or land searches as that may overlap or hamper already searched areas or new missions.
The search has been conducted with an aircraft from WSDOT as well as Coast Guard crews out of Port Angeles. WSDOT also is coordinating with the Quinault tribe, Jefferson and Pierce county sheriff’s offices, the Tacoma Police Department and the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center.
Updates on the search will be posted on the WSDOT blog. Email updates from WSDOT are also available online by signing up and selecting the Emergency news “air search and rescue” option. Barring new developments – which would be announced on the blog – the next update is planned for 10 a.m. Sunday, March 12.
WSDOT, by statute (RCW 47.68.380) is charged with the coordination and management of aerial search and rescue within the state. The agency works in conjunction with volunteer search and rescue groups, law enforcement and other agencies, such as the U.S. Navy, in carrying out such searches.
Virtual meeting takes place March 14 and 15.
OLYMPIA – The March 14 and 15 meeting of the Washington State Transportation Commission will include discussions on the Right of Way Safety Initiative for those living homeless on state highway right of ways, on-demand transit and the current health of Washington’s bridges.
The meeting starts at 9 a.m. both Tuesday, March 14, and Wednesday, March. 15. The meeting will be virtual using Zoom. Those interested in attending can register on the commission’s website. TVW will broadcast the meeting live.
Three state agencies – the Department of Commerce, the Washington State Department of Transportation and the Washington State Patrol – received funding from the Legislature in 2022 for an initiative to find solutions for people experiencing homelessness and living on state highway right of ways. The commission will hear an update on Tuesday about this work being done in partnership with local governments and nonprofits.
The commission will also receive an update Wednesday on the status of Washington’s bridge inventory. A panel will discuss whether funding for bridge maintenance is keeping up with the needs at both the state and the county level and the impact of preservation funding on bridge lifecycle sustainability.
Other highlights of the topics to be covered at the commission’s two-day meeting include:
The commission will take public comment at 1:45 p.m. on Wednesday, March 15. Those wishing to speak can sign up during the meeting by posting their name in the Q&A box on-screen. Written comments can also be submitted via email to
For more information about the commission and a complete meeting agenda, visit the commission’s website: wstc.wa.gov/.
The December 2022 edition of WSDOT’s quarterly performance report (Gray Notebook 88) is now available online. While numerous performance measures are reported throughout the Gray Notebook, highlights from this issue include:
Gray Notebook editions can be accessed at the Gray Notebook archive page.
Congestion expected Dec 23-26 on major routes like I-5, I-90 and US 2
OLYMPIA – People preparing for holly jolly festivities this season are urged to plan now for winter weather and expect delays while traveling on state highways, waterways or railways.
One way to help ensure holiday magic isn’t dimmed by delays is to “know before you go” by consulting the Washington State Department of Transportation’s popular travel charts to determine best times to travel, including times to avoid if possible. The Interstate 5 Canadian border forecast is not included due to unreliable pandemic travel data the last several years. Travel charts are based on 2019 pre-pandemic volumes.
The agency provides several tools to help prepare for winter travels – whether by vehicle, foot or sleigh:
Cross-state travel and mountain passes
Many people may travel on unfamiliar roads as they venture over the river and through the woods – and over mountain passes – to visit friends and family. Travelers can help keep everyone moving by being prepared for winter weather driving conditions and staying alert. Most pass closures, for example, are due to poor driver behavior, such as going too fast for conditions or not having proper winter driving equipment. WSDOT reminds drivers to follow posted chain requirements and slow down on snow and ice. An online winter travel reminders video has tips on how to check traction tire treads, alternatives to chains and what to carryin vehicles during winter travel.
No construction is planned on most state roads from Friday, Dec. 23 to Monday, Dec. 26 – including on I-90 and Snoqualmie Pass. However, the usual holiday increase in traffic volumes means travelers should expect delays on I-90, especially eastbound on Thursday and Friday and westbound on Monday and Tuesday (see charts for more detail). Text message alerts about significant delays on Snoqualmie Pass are available by texting the words “WSDOT Snoqualmie” to 468311.
“It takes just one reckless person driving too fast, under the influence or not following chain requirements to close a mountain pass for all of us,” said Jim Andersen, WSDOT’s Winter Program Manager. “Our crews take great pride in their work and do everything in their power to keep roads open – but we need drivers and truckers to do their part and slow down.”
Where’s the plow?
WSDOT crews work around the clock clearing and treating highways throughout the state. Plow drivers must travel 35 miles per hour or slower to apply deicer or salt and to appropriately clear the roadway of snow. Snowplows also often use “tandem plowing” – staggered plows working together to clear an area more efficiently.
“Just because you can’t see a plow doesn’t mean our hard-working men and women aren’t out there,” said James Morin, the agency’s maintenance operations branch manager. “Plow trucks typically cover between 40 and 100 miles of roadway each, so if you are not seeing a plow, it is most likely because it is either ahead of you, behind you or on another route.”
Several plows have been struck by motorists this winter, which is dangerous for everyone on roadways and also takes the plows off the road during storms. Plow drivers’ peripheral vision is limited while moving snow off roadways, so all drivers are reminded to give plows plenty of room to do their work and never pass on the right – or on either side if there’s not sufficient room to do so safely.
Tolls
In the Puget Sound, weekend toll rates will be in effect on Monday, Dec. 26, for the State Route 520 bridge and SR 99 tunnel. The I-405 express toll lanes will be free and open to all drivers on Monday. Out-of-town travelers, including those using rental cars, can learn about toll roads and temporary account payment options on the Good To Go! visitors page visitors page.
Ferry travel
People boarding a state ferry by vehicle should prepare for long waits. With Christmas and New Year’s Day falling on a Sunday this year, the Friday and Saturday before each holiday are expected to be the busiest. Delays are possible in both directions on all routes. Customers can bypass vehicle lines by traveling as a walk-on passenger.
Trains, airports and transit
Travelers making a trip by train, personal aircraft or bus also should plan ahead to avoid holiday delays:
Virtual meeting takes place Dec. 13 and 14
OLYMPIA – The Washington State Transportation Commission will cover several topics at its Dec. 13 and 14 meeting, including statewide traffic safety challenges, a statewide road usage charge program, and approaches to addressing possible shortfalls in fuel funding at Washington State Ferries.
The meeting starts at 9 a.m. both Tuesday, Dec. 13, and Wednesday, Dec. 14. This meeting will be virtual using Zoom. People interested in attending can register on the Commission’s website. TVW will broadcast the meeting live.
The commission will hear from the state Traffic Safety Commission on Tuesday, December 13 about alarming increases in fatalities and injuries on our roadways, suggesting the time has come for significant changes in how to address roadway safety. The Traffic Safety Commission will share current safety trends and possible needed policy changes.
Also on Tuesday, the commission will hold a work session on current research, testing and preparations for a road usage charge program in Washington state. This will include reviewing and selecting recommendations on how to advance a pay-per-mile system. The commission’s recommendations will be provided to the Legislature for consideration in the 2023 legislative session.
Some further highlights of the commission’s two-day meeting include:
The commission will take public comment at 11:15 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14. Those wishing to speak can sign up during the meeting by posting their name in the Q&A box on-screen. Written comments can also be submitted via email at:
For more information about the commission and a complete meeting agenda, visit the commission’s website: www.wstc.wa.gov.
Public can weigh in on possible ferry fuel surcharge via online forum
OLYMPIA – The Washington State Transportation Commission is seeking public input on the possibility of applying a ferry fuel surcharge to ferry fares in the future, to help cover growing fuel costs for the state ferry system.
The ferry fuel surcharge has been a possible funding tool available to the state since 2011 in the event fuel budgets fall short. However, due to more stable fuel costs in years past, the surcharge has never been activated by the commission.
Under the current regulation, the ferry fuel surcharge could be activated upon Commission approval. If activated, the surcharge would be added to the fare and could be in an amount from 2.5% to 10% of the fare, depending on the funding gap the surcharge is addressing.
The public can now weigh in on whether a fuel surcharge should be added to ferry fares and how it could be applied. The commission is hosting an online public input forum through Wednesday, Nov. 30. All input gathered will be shared with commission members at their virtual meeting scheduled for Dec. 13 and 14 and will help inform discussions around future ferry fuel funding needs during the upcoming 2023 Legislative session.
In addition to providing comments via the online forum, public comment on a possible ferry fuel surcharge can also be offered in the following ways:
For more information about the commission, visit: www.wstc.wa.gov/
Consider public transportation options and walk-on ferry service this Thanksgiving weekendThe Washington State Department of Transportation urges all travelers to “know before you go” and consult the agency’s popular holiday travel charts to determine best times to travel, including times to avoid if possible. The Interstate 5 Canadian border forecast is not included due to unreliable pandemic travel data the last several years. Travel charts are based on 2019 pre-pandemic volumes.
The agency provides several tools to help plan holiday travels:
Ready for winter
The safety of the traveling public and the movement of goods across our transportation system remain the agency’s top priority this winter. WSDOT crews are prepped for winter weather – including pre-treating and plowing. Travelers can help by being prepared for winter weather driving conditions. People can sign up for area-specific communication about road closures or scheduled maintenance activities including areas close to home or areas they’ll be traveling to for the holiday.
WSDOT encourages holiday travelers to work together to keep everyone safe, including those traveling by foot, bike, wheelchair or other modes.
“This time of year, many people are eager to see their loved ones and often make long trips, sometimes on roads they aren’t familiar with,” said WSDOT Active Transportation Director Barb Chamberlain. “When you increase your following distance and stop proactively for someone using a crosswalk or bike lane, you’re helping someone else make it home to their loved ones. Over 25% of the people who live in Washington aren’t drivers and they’re trying to get somewhere too.”
Mountain Passes
Weather conditions over mountain passes can change rapidly so it’s important for travelers to plan ahead and follow posted chain requirements. It’s often drivers who travel too fast, without traction tires or chains or under the influence that close a pass for everyone. No construction is planned on I-90 for Thursday and Friday, Nov. 24-25. However, the usual holiday increase in traffic volumes means travelers should expect delays, especially eastbound on Wednesday and Thursday and westbound on Friday and Saturday (see charts for more detail). Text message alerts about significant delays are available by texting the words “WSDOT Snoqualmie” to 468311.
Tolls
In the Puget Sound, weekend toll rates will be in effect on Thursday, Nov. 24, on the State Route 520 bridge and SR 99 tunnel. The I-405 express toll lanes will be free and open to all drivers on the Thursday holiday. Out-of-town travelers, including those using rental cars, can learn about toll roads and temporary account payment options on the Good To Go! visitors page.
Ferry travel
People boarding a state ferry by vehicle should prepare for long waits. Peak travel times on most routes are expected to be westbound (or onto an island) Wednesday and Thursday, Nov. 23-24, then eastbound (or off an island), Friday and Saturday, Nov. 25-26. Customers also can bypass vehicle lines by traveling as a walk-on passenger.
Studded tires allowed in Washington from Nov. 1 to March 31; stud-free winter tire alternatives are legal year-round
OLYMPIA – While many may be thinking about pumpkins and spiced ciders, now is the time for travelers to make sure they’re prepared for winter driving.
The Washington State Department of Transportation urges all travelers to start preparing themselves and their vehicles for winter weather. Drivers can check out WSDOT's winter driving web page for tips and information. WSDOT also asks travelers to always "know before you go" and get the most up-to-date roadway information before heading out.
“Our crews are ready for the upcoming snow and ice season, but we need travelers to get ready as well.” said WSDOT Maintenance Operations Manager James Morin. “Most pass closures are due to preventable spin outs or crashes from vehicles driven too fast or not having proper equipment. We need everyone to work together, be patient and prepared to help keep traffic moving.”
Crews are already prepping for winter, including hiring additional workers for peak winter months. While significant effort and progress has been made towards hiring, there is still a nationwide shortage of Commercial Driver License drivers for plows and other vehicles. This means it's even more important for travelers to be prepared to avoid preventable crashes or closures this winter.
Most mountain pass closures are due to preventable spin outs or crashes from vehicles driven too fast or not having proper equipment. WSDOT encourages all travelers to work together, be patient and prepared to help keep traffic moving.
To check conditions and prepare for winter weather:
Alternatives to chains Although some vehicle manufacturers recommend against the use of tire chains for certain models, that doesn’t excuse travelers from state traction device laws. These requirements exist to help keep all traffic moving safely during extreme winter conditions.
The Washington State Patrol provides an online list of state-approved alternative traction devices on its vehicle equipment webpage under “traction tires” These approved alternatives meet state traction tire requirements. All travelers are reminded to prepare for changing weather conditions and avoid a costly ticket by carrying chains or approved alternatives whenever crossing mountain passes. Failure to obey a tire chains sign can mean a ticket of up to $500. Special chain enforcement patrols will be keeping an eye on mountain passes this winter.
Studded tires By law, studded tires are legal for use in Washington state only from Nov. 1 through March 31. This applies to all vehicles in Washington, even those traveling from other states, and no personal exemptions or waivers exist.
WSDOT estimates studded tires cause between $20 million and $29 million in pavement damage to state-owned asphalt and concrete roadways each year. Motorists are encouraged to visit a tire dealer to learn about options, including stud-free, winter tread traction tires. This type of tire is different than an all-season tire, is legal year-round and does not cause the same roadway damage as studded tires. More information about studded-tire restrictions and requirements can be found in the Frequently Asked Questions on the WSP website.
Final recommendation to Legislature due in June 2023
OLYMPIA – After months gathering public feedback and reviewing technical analyses, the state Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission submitted Phase II recommendations to the Washington State Legislature that include continued study of two options for future aviation capacity.
The two options were submitted on Oct. 15 and include:
The demand for aviation in Washington state is growing and will soon exceed the capacity of existing airports. The Phase II recommendations come eight months after the commission recommended six preliminary airport sites with potential for expansion to meet both short- and long-term aviation needs.
“This is an opportunity for the state to consider how to meet capacity limits while also planning for an airport of the future,” said David Fleckenstein, WSDOT Aviation Director and chairman of the commission. “Increasing the use of sustainable aviation fuels could significantly reduce harmful emissions. Emerging aeronautics technology could also reduce noise from airplanes while also providing additional commercial air service options to more airports around the state.”
In the coming months, the commission will offer additional opportunities for public input and study additional technical data about each greenfield site still being considered. To learn about updates and new developments in the process, please sign up for email updates (under News, select “CACC”). A final recommendation is due to the Legislature by June 15, 2023.
The commission is considering environmental effects, economic and technical criteria and public feedback and opinion as it develops recommendations to improve Washington’s air transportation capacity.
About the Commercial Aviation Coordination Commission
The Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission was created by the Legislature in 2019 with a charge to provide a recommendation by June 15, 2023, for a single preferred location to meet the forecast demand for commercial passenger service, air cargo and general aviation. After the commission makes its final recommendation, it will be up to the Legislature and potential airport sponsors to act on that recommendation.
The Legislature directed three phases for the commission’s work:
In December 2020, the commission released its Phase I report, which listed six preliminary airport sites with potential for expansion to meet both short and long-term aviation needs. A February 2022 report provided a final short list of six locations. The October 2022 report details the two options selected. The commission will provide its recommendation for a single preferred location to the Legislature by June 15, 2023.
The commission’s 14 voting and 12 nonvoting members include representatives from the aviation industry, the public, airport communities, freight industry, state and local agencies and elected officials. WSDOT provides the commission technical assistance and staff support from its Aviation Division.
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