The Willapa Hills Trail Overpass above state Route 6 at Littell, which is just east of Adna, is set to be completed over the nights of April 16, 17 and 18.
After delays due to the fittings of the bridge being incorrect, the construction company heading the process — which is on Washington State Parks property — announced Wednesday, “We are pleased to announce that, with everyone’s cooperation, we are now ready to proceed with the final fit-up and installation of the structure.”
A pre-fit of the bridge was conducted at a yard in Kelso recently, according to the announcement. As the final stage of the construction begins, drivers going through the area should prepare for increased activity onsite next week.
“We kindly ask everyone to pay attention to any changes in the traffic control in the coming days and to stay tuned to official announcements from the jurisdictions involved in the project,” wrote a spokesperson for Tapani INC. construction in an email. “We look forward to completion of this high-quality and beautiful project that everyone can enjoy for many years to come.”
The Willapa Hills Trail, a rail-to-trail, stretches from Interstate 5 to Raymond through the Chehalis and Willapa River valleys. It is a popular biking, walking, running, bird-watching and dog-walking destination that begins just upstream from the confluence of the Newaukum and Chehalis rivers.
In some areas along the trail, a Discover Pass is required for vehicles. With the completion of the overpass, the trail will no longer intersect with a major roadway.