URGENT UPDATE: Construction crews are actively repairing a significant sinkhole at the busy Clarkston roundabout, with repairs expected to be completed by November 7. A collapsed underground storm line, which failed in September, has caused traffic disruptions in the right lane of this critical route, impacting daily commuters and holiday shoppers.
The sinkhole is located near the intersection of Bridge, Diagonal, and Second streets, just west of the Interstate “Blue” Bridge. Clarkston’s Public Works Director, Mike Dimmick, reported that the site is seeing daily improvements. “Every day, it’s looking better,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of resolving this issue to prevent future problems with the roundabout.
Construction firm M.L. Albright and Sons is currently managing the repairs under the oversight of Knife River, the primary contractor for the project. Depending on weather conditions, paving work is scheduled to begin next week.
As of now, the responsibility for covering the repair costs remains uncertain. Discussions are ongoing between city officials and the Washington State Department of Transportation. Dimmick indicated that a decision on funding should emerge shortly, stressing the urgency of addressing this infrastructure challenge.
This roundabout is a critical junction in the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley, handling one of the area’s heaviest traffic loads, especially during the holiday shopping season. Local residents and officials appreciate the community’s patience during these necessary repairs, which are vital for maintaining safe and efficient travel.
“The storm line and manhole are being replaced, and everything within the roundabout will be new,” Dimmick added, expressing optimism about the resolution of the sinkhole issue. “There are no more sinkholes, thank God.”
The right lane will fully reopen as soon as repairs are finalized, restoring normal traffic flow to this busy area. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as officials work diligently to resolve the situation.
