r/Anacortes

Any ideas? What is this anomaly?

If you travel SR 20 south of Anacortes, especially if you’re headed to or from Whidbey Island, you’ll want to plan ahead and give yourself extra time over the next 19 days.

Starting at 6 a.m. Monday, Aug. 17, SR 20 will be reduced to one lane near Campbell Lake Road. An automated traffic signal will alternate traffic through the intersection around the clock until 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4.

During the 19-day lane reduction, crews will grade the intersection in preparation for a new roundabout planned for 2027. So, what does “grade” actually mean? In this case, crews will bring in material to build up lower areas and reshape the intersection for the future roundabout. Similar to my stomach after a large meal… all that new material needs some time to settle. In this case, the settling and stabilization process takes about six months over the winter.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

• One lane of SR 20 with traffic alternating in both directions, 24/7
• Delays, especially during busier travel times
• A reduced 40 mph speed limit near the intersection
• Travelers to or from Whidbey Island can also consider the Mukilteo/Clinton ferry
• If you’re headed to the Anacortes or Coupeville ferry terminals, give yourself extra time to get there

After the 19-day lane reduction ends, SR 20 will return to its previous configuration, including the eastbound SR 20 left-turn lane to Campbell Lake Road and the acceleration lane.

We know this will add time to some trips over the next 19 days, but it’s an important step toward a future roundabout designed to improve safety at the intersection. In the meantime, plan ahead, give yourself some wiggle room and check real-time conditions before you head out.