Traffic alert: $1.6M project to start on one of the busiest intersections in Tri-Cities

Drivers on the busiest corridor in Kennewick can expect some lane closures, delays and detours during an intersection improvement project starting Monday.

The intersection improvements at Columbia Center Boulevard and West Quinault Avenue near the mall are expected to last until November.

Columbia Center Boulevard is a main artery, carrying about 34,000 vehicles a day, in a Tri-Cities hub for shopping, entertainment and government services.

Crews will be adding a left turn lane from Quinault Avenue to Columbia Center Boulevard and creating a dedicated through-lane and right-turn lane for westbound traffic on Quinault Avenue.

An additional southbound lane will be added on Columbia Center Boulevard leading into the Red Lion Hotel parking lot.

The project also includes installing a new traffic signal, updating ADA ramps and improving lighting, storm drains, curbs, gutters and sidewalks.

Work hours are scheduled to be 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m.

Temporary lanes and sidewalk closures are expected.

Drivers are asked to follow posted detours during the project.

Apollo Inc. of Kennewick is the contractor for the $1.6 million project.

This story was originally published March 6, 2025 at 5:00 AM.