In partnership with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), we continue to work diligently to address the impacts of the landside on I-5 over the weekend.
Preliminary investigations indicate that a clogged culvert, blocked by a roll of carpet padding from an unknown location, prevented water from flowing through the storm drainage system. This led to water buildup, which saturated the soil and ultimately destabilized the slope. City engineers reviewed the safety of surrounding structures, including houses on Maryland Street, and there is no indication of immediate risk.
The City’s engineering and maintenance teams are also actively working with WSDOT to repair the damaged embankment. WSDOT geotechnical engineers have assessed the slope and determined it to be stable at this time. WSDOT and City staff will continue to monitor the embankment.
Community members can help prevent future flooding by regularly checking and clearing nearby storm drains and ditches of any debris, if possible and safe to do so. If you see a clogged drain that you cannot safely remove debris from, please report the issue to Public Works at cob.org/fix, through the SeeClickFix app or by calling 360-778-7700.
