RICHLAND, Wash. — Construction is once again shifting traffic patterns along one of Richland’s busiest corridors as the George Washington Way Improvement Project enters its next phase. City officials say the work will bring significant long-term benefits for safety, traffic flow, and accessibility once complete.
Crews have begun a new round of construction on South George Washington Way, a major infrastructure project designed to reduce congestion, improve safety, and enhance mobility for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. The latest phase, which started October 6, includes the closure of the right-turn lane from northbound George Washington Way onto Columbia Point Drive.
During the closure, crews will construct a new retaining wall and sidewalk—key components of the corridor’s pedestrian and drainage upgrades. A detour is now in place, redirecting northbound drivers to turn right at Comstock Street, continue along Bradley Boulevard, and then reconnect to Columbia Point Drive. City transportation officials are urging drivers to allow extra time for their commute and remain cautious around construction zones.
City leaders emphasized that the George Washington Way project is separate from the Downtown Loop Project, which will transform nearby sections of George Washington Way and Jadwin Avenue into one-way streets. That project, scheduled to begin in Spring 2026, is intended to improve traffic circulation and pedestrian safety in Richland’s downtown core.
The George Washington Way upgrades represent one of several ongoing infrastructure initiatives within Richland aimed at modernizing aging roadways and improving multimodal connectivity. Once finished, the corridor will feature enhanced sidewalks, new pedestrian crossings, and improved access to Columbia Point’s recreation and commercial areas.
Officials say that while the temporary detours and lane closures may cause short-term delays, the investment is expected to deliver long-term benefits by easing bottlenecks and improving safety for all users.
The city plans to keep residents updated on construction milestones and detour adjustments via its official Richland city website and traffic alert system.
Originally reported by Robert Desaulniers in Apple Valley News Now.
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