Plan for Richland Detour, Van Giesen Street to be Closed Thursday Thru Monday

Signs have been up posted on the Route 240 bypass warning motorists of the upcoming closure.

Get our free mobile app

Construction begins at 12 noon on Thursday for the Richland railroad crossing at Van Giesen Street/Route 224. The project will completely replace the railroad crossing, rail, ties, and concrete crossing panels. Both sides of the crossing will also be re-paved.

According to a press release from the Port of Benton:

The railroad crossing replacement project will require the full closure of Van Giesen Street for the duration of the project, with the crossing reopening for traffic no later than Monday, August 22nd at 6 am. The roadway will be opened earlier if construction is completed ahead of schedule.

Detour signs will be in place and electronic highway notification will be displayed directing traffic around the detour, generally Van Giesen Street, to Bombing Range Road and Keene Road, and then via Duportail Street back to State Route 240.

The Port has contracted with Railworks Track Systems for the replacement of the Van Giesen/State Route 224 crossing project.

Plans are in place to also replace the Swift Boulevard/Cemetery crossing in September. Both rail crossing projects are 100% Port-funded.

Plan ahead. And, pack your patience.