City Announces Water Transmission Main Improvements – Phase IIA

White Salmon, WA — The City of White Salmon will begin construction on a major water infrastructure project in March 2026 to replace aging water transmission lines and strengthen the reliability of the community’s water system. The Water Transmission Main Improvements – Phase IIA project will upgrade portions of the City’s primary transmission system and improve long-term water service capacity for residents, businesses, and emergency services.

The project replaces a section of the City’s existing 14-inch diameter transmission main, originally installed decades ago, with a new 20-inch diameter water transmission main built with modern materials. The larger pipeline will improve system reliability, stabilize water pressure, and increase fire-flow capacity throughout the city.

Construction work will occur along several key transportation and residential corridors including:

• SR-141 / West Jewett Blvd between approximately MP 3.75 and MP 5.5, from approximately SW Schuener Drive northbound to Powerhouse Road.
• Forrester Drive
• Powerhouse Road
• Knoll Road
• Arnett Road
• Adjacent connecting streets and service areas

The project will also include installation of new water services and upgraded connections for properties located along these corridors.

Project Timeline

February 24, 2026
• Public Open House held at City Council Chambers to share project information, schedules, and anticipated impacts with the community.

March 2026
• Construction begins with mobilization and early work along major project corridors.

Spring–Summer 2026
• Multi-phase installation of the new 20-inch transmission main along Forrester Drive, Powerhouse Road, and SR-141 / West Jewett Blvd.
• Installation of new water services and connections along Knoll Road, Arnett Road, and nearby streets.
• Traffic control measures and temporary lane impacts may occur as crews move through construction zones.
• Final system connections, testing, and commissioning of the upgraded transmission main.
• Restoration of streets, sidewalks, landscaping, and affected areas.

Project Investment and Funding

The Water Transmission Main Improvements – Phase IIA project represents a $8.0 million investment in White Salmon’s infrastructure.

Funding for the project includes support from the Washington State Public Works Assistance Account (PWAA):

• $6.8 million – State low-interest loan (85%)
• $1.2 million – State grant funding (15%)

This funding approach reduces costs for local ratepayers while allowing the City to invest in critical infrastructure improvements designed to serve the community for decades.

Benefits to the Community

The project will provide several long-term benefits for residents and businesses, including:

• Improved water pressure stability throughout the system
• Stronger fire protection capacity with increased hydrant flow
• Reduced risk of water main failures and service interruptions
• Infrastructure capacity to support future growth in White Salmon

Public Information

Residents and property owners are encouraged to stay informed about construction schedules and traffic impacts throughout the project.

For questions or additional information, please contact:

Chris Ture
Public Works Director
City of White Salmon
(509) 493-1133 ext. 500
christ@whitesalmonwa.gov

Jay Peninger
Anderson Perry & Associates
(509) 529-9260
jpeninger@andersonperry.com