Public Invited to Review Environmental Assessment for Hoh Road Bridge Proposal

Under the park's proposal, this temporary one-lane bridge would be replaced by a permanent two-lane crossing over West Twin Creek.

News Release Date: May 30, 2007

Contact: Barb Maynes, 360-565-3005

The Environmental Assessment (EA) for the West Twin Creek Bridge on the Upper Hoh Road was released today for public review and comment. This EA analyzes one action alternative for constructing a two-lane bridge, along with a no action alternative. 

“Because of the pressing need for safe, two-lane access to the Hoh Rain Forest and the short time window for completing in-stream construction work in the rain forest, we are conducting an expedited 15-day public review and comment period,” said Olympic National Park Superintendent Bill Laitner. 

Prior to the severe storm of November 6, 2007, West Twin Creek flowed through two large culverts (or corrugated metal pipes) under the Hoh River Road. High water and storm debris plugged the culverts, causing the creek to overflow and erode the road. This led to a large (75 feet long and 25 feet deep) washout, now spanned by a temporary one-lane bridge.

The proposed project would re-establish two-lane access for park visitors and staff to the Hoh Visitor Center, campground, picnic areas, trails, and park operational facilities and housing and would also restore natural hydrologic conditions and fish passage in West Twin Creek. 

The EA may be reviewed online at the National Park Service Planning Environment and Public Comment (PEPC) website. A copy of the EA may be requested by calling the Superintendent’s Office at 360-565-3004.

Comments may also be sent to the following address no later than June 13, 2007.

Superintendent - West Twin Bridge Crossing 
Olympic National Park
600 East Park Avenue
Port Angeles, WA 98362

Fax: [phone]
Website: https://parkplanning.nps.gov

Commentors should be aware that their entire comment – including personal identifying information – may be made publicly available at any time. While commentors can ask that their personal identifying information be withheld from public review, the NPS cannot guarantee that this will be possible.

For more information about this project, people may visit National Park Service’s Planning Environment and Public Comment website or call the park at 360-565-3004.