Notoriously dangerous stretch of Highway 2 getting much-needed attention
Oct 9, 2017, 8:53 AM
(File, KIRO Radio)
(File, KIRO Radio)
One of the most dangerous stretches of highway in Washington state is getting more safety improvements.
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Over the past 14 years, more than 60 people have died in crashes on Highway 2 between Everett and Stevens Pass, The Daily Herald reports.
In response, crews will install median barriers for about two miles, beginning at Bickford Avenue and reaching almost to the Pilchuck River Bridge. The hope is they will put an end to crossover, head-on crashes. Many of the crashes over the years have been reportedly caused by vehicles weaving into oncoming traffic.
Highway 2 has been a main focus for the state.
In Sultan, for example, a roundabout was built to reduce the number of crashes, many of which were related to turning vehicles.
In August, KIRO Radio traffic reporter Chris Sullivan wrote that the state is dedicating $17 million to improvements along the highway. That does not include the barrier work, which will cost approximately $10 million, the Herald reports.
Barrier work is scheduled for 2019. It is expected to wrap up by October 2019.
