January 19, 2012

Capitol Campus Update

Falling trees prompt closure of Deschutes Parkway

Enterprise Services is closing the state-managed Deschutes Parkway in Olympia from Fifth Avenue to the I-5 on-ramp because of falling trees.

Several trees burdened by snow and ice have already fallen along portions of the 1.5-mile stretch of road along Capitol Lake. Crews from the department's Buildings and Grounds program will be unable to remove the trees until the current ice-storm conditions subside.

The closure also applies to the hill portion of Lakeridge Drive that intersects with the parkway from the Thurston County Courthouse.

Tenants and visitors are also advised to stay away from trees on the Capitol Campus. The heavy accumulation of snow has caused some branches to snap and fall. The danger exists of more falling.

Avoid use of elevators at Capitol Campus buildings

Tenants and visitors at buildings on the Capitol Campus are urged to avoid using elevators in the facilities.

Power interruptions today are disrupting normal operation of the elevators.

Anyone who has questions about elevator operations on campus is advised to call the Buildings and Grounds office at 725-0000.

Like other agencies in Thurston County, Enterprise Services is operating with limited staff. However, department crews are working around the clock to keep the campus open for business.

The crews plow primary roads first to keep routes used by fire, police and transit open during snow and ice storms. This includes Sid Snyder Avenue, Cherry Lane, 11th Avenue and Washington Street. Another priority is to clear evacuation routes from all campus buildings.

Sand is used to improve traction on campus sidewalks, roads and building entryways. Custodial staff will apply salt on sidewalks and building entrances as temperatures lower.

Enterprise Services works closely with local government and transit agencies to coordinate snow response.

For more information on Olympia city street conditions:

For more information on Intercity Transit bus routes: Intercity Transit.