County awards $7M South Cloverdale Road improvement project to Jefferies Construction

Cowlitz County Commissioners recently discussed a significant infrastructure project that promises to enhance local road safety and connectivity. During the meeting held on June 2, 2025, County Engineer Susan Eugenis presented details about the award of a major bid for the South Cloverdale Road intersection improvement project, which has been a focal point for community safety concerns.

The project, awarded to Jefferies Construction LLC, comes at a cost of $7,256,372.86, notably over a million dollars less than the initial engineer's estimate. This competitive bidding process saw six submissions, with the first four bids closely clustered in price, indicating a robust interest from contractors in this vital work. The project will not only improve road conditions but also involve the relocation of a waterline for the city of Kalama, which is expected to enhance overall infrastructure reliability.

Funding for the project is sourced from a combination of federal and local funds, including $2.4 million from Surface Transportation Program (STP) funds, $1.25 million from crab funding, and $2.3 million from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The county's road fund will contribute approximately $1.2 million to the project, ensuring that local resources are effectively utilized for community benefit.

Eugenis noted that construction is anticipated to begin this summer, with plans to pause work during the winter months due to the lead times required for two large culverts involved in the project. This phased approach aims to maximize efficiency while adhering to environmental regulations, particularly concerning fish migration periods.

The commissioners expressed confidence in the contractor's ability to deliver the project successfully, having conducted a pre-award meeting to ensure readiness. The collaboration with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) was also highlighted as a critical step in securing the necessary approvals for the project.

This infrastructure improvement is expected to significantly impact local residents by enhancing road safety and accessibility, addressing long-standing community concerns about traffic conditions at the intersection. As the project progresses, it will be closely monitored to ensure it meets the community's needs and expectations.