Updated: June 22, 2026

Project Update

WSDOT completed planned improvements along 9th Avenue (SR-125) between the railroad tracks and Orchard Street in 2023. The final phase, which will extend the sidewalk across the railroad tracks on both sides of 9th Avenue/SR-125, is scheduled for completion in June, 2026.

What is this project going to accomplish?

This Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) project now consists of three stages:

  • The first (completed) stage constructed a roundabout at the SR-125 (9th Avenue)/Plaza Way/The Dalles Military Road intersection to improve traffic flow and reduce the risk of collisions.  This first stage also included improving Plaza Way south to Village Way and the replacement of the traffic signal at Plaza Way and Tietan Street. 
  • The second (completed) stage was bid as part of a larger overall paving project on SR-125.  It completed sidewalk extensions north from the railroad tracks to the existing sidewalk near Grocery Outlet on the west side of 9th Avenue.  Curb, gutter, and storm drainage is also included.  Additionally, an enhanced pedestrian crosswalk was installed at Orchard Street.
  • The third stage (ongoing)  of the project will upgrade the railroad crossing on SR-125 (9th Avenue) and connect sidewalks on both sides of SR-125 (9th Avenue) to the north.  Additionally, Columbia Railroad will be replacing the concrete crossing on Tietan Street as part of the project. 

Project Schedule

According to WSDOT and Columbia Railroad, a short-duration road closure of SR-125 (9th Avenue) is scheduled for the week of June 22, 2026.  When this work is completed, SR-125 (9th Avenue) will open to traffic, and Tietan Street will then be closed the week of June 29, 2026, to replace the rail crossing.  Separate detours will be established for each phase of the work.  All roads are anticipated to be reopened to traffic before the July 4th weekend.

How is this project being funded?

The various phases are predominantly funded by $3.9M in State funds and $3.2M in Federal funds.