Road work has begun at Snoqualmie Parkway and the westbound Interstate 90 on-ramp at Exit 25.

Work is scheduled through November and anticipated to be completed by the end of December.

In a contract agreement between the state Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and the city of Snoqualmie, the city expressed safety and access concerns over backups on Snoqualmie Parkway that extends from the westbound I-90 on-ramp through the unsigned intersection with Southeast 99th Street. The concern prompted the two parties to create plans for a new on-ramp to be built in the decommissioned weigh station area at Exit 25.

The current on-ramp will be used for drivers entering westbound I-90 from state Route 18.

The existing signal-controlled right turn lane at the intersection will be modified to create a free right turn protected by a traffic island. There will be traffic meters for both ramps before they merge, which will be activated during high-commute times.

The improvements are projected to enhance traffic flow and increase safety, especially during peak commuting hours.

The improvement project will start with shoulder closures along Snoqualmie Parkway, and as the project progresses there will be lane closures on Snoqualmie Parkway from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ramp work will be from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

According to city documents, the improvements will cost about $1.2 million and will be divided between the Snoqualmie Tribe, benefiting municipalities and WSDOT. WSDOT will pay about $600,000 while the Snoqualmie Tribe will contribute $75,000, the city of Covington will contribute $50,000, the city of Maple Valley will contribute $50,000 and the city of Snoqualmie will cover the remaining balance of about $422,000.