Urgent Repairs Underway for Sinkhole Near Clarkston Roundabout

URGENT UPDATE: Construction crews are actively repairing a major sinkhole near the Clarkston roundabout, with completion anticipated by November 7. A collapsed underground storm line, which caused the sinkhole in the right lane of a busy route, has led to significant disruptions for motorists in the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley.

The sinkhole, located near the intersections of Bridge, Diagonal, and Second streets, emerged in September and has been a persistent issue for local authorities. Mike Dimmick, the Clarkston Public Works Director, stated, “Every day, it’s looking better,” emphasizing the urgency for repairs to safeguard the roundabout’s integrity. Dimmick expressed a strong desire to avoid future incidents, noting his year-long experience with ongoing infrastructure challenges.

Currently, M.L. Albright and Sons is conducting the repair work under Knife River, the primary contractor responsible for the roundabout project. Paving is set to commence next week, weather permitting, as crews work diligently to restore normal traffic flow.

Discussions regarding who will bear the repair costs are ongoing, with no final decision reached as of now. Both the Washington State Department of Transportation and the city of Clarkston are involved in these discussions, highlighting the collaborative efforts to resolve the situation swiftly.

This roundabout is crucial for local traffic, especially with the holiday shopping season approaching. It serves as a vital access point for shoppers heading to popular stores like Costco, Walmart, and Albertsons. Officials urge the community for patience as they work to eliminate the sinkhole issue once and for all.

Dimmick confirmed, “The storm line and manhole are being replaced, and everything within the roundabout will be new. There are no more sinkholes, thank God.” The right lane will reopen fully once the repair work is completed, allowing traffic to resume its normal flow.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation as crews continue to work tirelessly to restore safety and accessibility for all road users in Clarkston.