Commissioners act on roads, hear report on SAIL

Wahkiakum County commissioners acted on road projects, heard a report about an activity program for senior citizens, and took care of other business when they met Tuesday.

Commissioners approved a memorandum of understanding with Columbia Land Trust to accept ownership of a bridge which the agency is constructing on Risk Road over Nelson Creek.

The bridge will replace a culvert that restricts the creek’s flow during heavy rainfall and is part of a project to reduce flooding and restore habitat in the area. The land trust provided funding for the project. The county assumes ownership and maintenance responsibility.

Commissioners approved advertising for consultants to design a bike lane along Columbia Street between the SR 4 and Jacobson Road intersections, a stretch that was repaved last year.

The project will include connecting existing driveway culverts to a storm drain system, designing catch basins to manage road runoff and developing a striping and signing plan.

Commissioners also approved advertising for proposals from consultants to design a new approach for the East Valley Road intersction with SR 4 in Skamokawa. The road now intersects at an angle, making it difficult for drivers to check for traffic when entering the highway. The new design would create a 90 degree angle.

Managers of a Health and Human Services sponsored excercise program for senior citizens reported restarting the program after a covid-19 hiatus and adding a second weekly session.

Called SAIL--Stay Active and Independent for Life, the program involves light exercise for people of all abilites to develop balance, flexibility and strength. It offers tips to help people avoid falls and also provides a social gathering which is quite popular, the managers said.

Sessions are held at the Hope Center on south Third Street in Cathlamet. The original session follows the CAP Senior Luncheon; the new session is set for 11 a.m. on Tuesdays.