The State Route 3 Chico Creek – Remove Fish Barriers project from Washington State Department of Transportation highlights the power of collaboration, innovative design, and a shared commitment to restoring fish habitat. This effort contributed to the highest salmon returns in decades – all while maintaining traffic flow for the public. WSDOT significantly accelerated fish barrier removals in 2013 following a federal court ruling affirming the state’s treaty obligation to protect fish runs for 21 tribes. This $56.8 million project replaced outdated structures with fish-friendly designs that support salmon migration. In partnership with the Suquamish Tribe, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Kitsap County, four fish barriers were eliminated and stream crossings were reduced from four to two. Complementary upstream removals by the county and other partners opened 22 miles of potential salmon habitat, creating lasting benefits for the watershed and the broader community.
America's Transportation Awards 