This project involves building an interchange at the intersection of US395/Ridgeline Drive, which includes an undercrossing structure for Ridgeline Drive to cross under US395.

With the significant amount of growth in the Southridge area, a second US395 intersection is needed between Interstate 82 and Hildebrand Road.  Currently the Ridgeline Drive intersection with US395 is restricted to not allow left turns out from Ridgeline onto US395.  This restricts the ability of adjacent properties to successfully develop without the benefit of easy access to and from their properties.

A traffic signal at US395/Ridgeline is not practical due to the steep grade of US395 and the amount of truck traffic that uses this route.

In partnership with the Washington State Department of Transportation, an underpass interchange has been chosen for this location.  The project includes:

  • Ridgeline Drive crossing underneath US395
  • On and off ramps at this location
  • An additional northbound US395 lane from Ridgeline to north of Hildebrand
  • New turning lanes at all four legs of the US395/Hildebrand intersection

The interchange project is funded with Connecting Washington funds, National Highway Freight Program funds, and a Public Works Trust Fund loan from the State.

WA DOT - Bruce Mills
WA DOT - Bruce Mills
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The design for the interchange project (shown in blue on the conceptual design sketch) will be completed in the fall of 2019, and right-of-way needed for the project will be completed by the end of 2019. The project is scheduled to be built from the spring of 2020 through the fall of 2021.

If sufficient funds exist following the interchange project, the City will construct additional adjacent corridor improvement projects in 2022 (shown in orange on the conceptual design sketch).

City of Kennewick
City of Kennewick
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There is an open house tonight (June 12th) at the Southridge High School library from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. for community input on the project and for representatives to answer questions from the public.

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