Thursday, October 1, 2026
The multimillion-dollar Fones Road Corridor Project is heading into its next phase following the installation of underground utilities and a new water main.
Work crews are expected to transition back to daytime shifts this week after months of nighttime duty. The transition could happen as soon as Wednesday, Dec. 17. Work hours should run from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
"Over the past year, crews have made significant progress toward transforming Fones Road into a safer and more efficient corridor," said the City of Olympia Public Works Department in an update on the project.
"Key milestones include installing undeground utilities to improve service reliability and laying a new water main to support future growth in the area. These upgrades not only strengthen essential infrastructure but also lay the groundwork for continued improvements that will benefit everyone who travels through the corridor."
The work schedule calls for crews to begin intalling storm drains along the corridor later this month, something that is viewed as a key component. A project timeline estimates the work is going to run through March 2026.
"These new drains will help reduce flooding, protect water quality, and ensure the roadway remains durable during heavy rains," the Public Works Department said. "This work is an important step toward creating a corrdior that is better equipped to serve the community for years to come."
The work on Fones Road is complicated. As a result, motorists are advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes, as a means to ensure the safety of work crews and people who live in the area.
Construction on the Fones Road Corridor Project kicked off in November 2024 with the goal of transforming it into a safer corridor for bicyclists, motorists, pedestrians and truckers.
The estimated cost of the corridor project is $24.5 million with the City of Olympia contributing more than $13 million. The city has also received more than $11 million in grants from state and federal sources to help pay for the project.
The project also aims to create a safer connection to transit stops on 18th and Pacific avenues, as well as add landscaping and lighting along the corridor, which measures less than three-quarters of a mile.
Road construction is scheduled to end in fall 2026.
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Honestyandrealityguy
I cannot believe that it has taken this long (and expecting more) to repair such a little road. Sad.
Monday, December 15, 2025 Report this
chrispc2u
For perspective, it only took a year and a half to build the Empire State building. Thanks for letting us know we’re only in for another excruciating 10 months of brutalizing the suspensions on our vehicles.
Monday, December 15, 2025 Report this
Brewmanchu
I'm not impressed with the management of this project. It has been strung out far too long for such a short stretch and the road is far more rough than it ought to be.
Monday, December 15, 2025 Report this