Washougal launches project to improve safety and access on Shepherd Road

The $4.34 million project will improve pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, formalize parking, and address long-standing concerns about speeding, drainage, and public safety

The city of Washougal has launched the Shepherd Road Pedestrian Connection Project, a vital infrastructure improvement designed to enhance safety, accessibility, and connectivity along a key route leading to Sandy Swimming Hole Park. The $4.34 million project will improve pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, formalize parking, and address long-standing concerns about speeding, drainage, and public safety.

Located between Washougal River Road and Lebrun Drive, the project includes the widening of Shepherd Road to accommodate:

• A shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists
• On-street parking to replace informal shoulder parking
• Raised crosswalks and traffic calming measures
• ADA-compliant pedestrian upgrades
• Improved stormwater drainage
• Pedestrian-scale lighting, signage, and landscaping enhancements

“This project delivers long-needed improvements for residents, park visitors, emergency services and students,” said Scott Collins, City Engineer and Deputy Public Works Director, who is leading the effort. “It’s about creating a safer, more connected corridor that reflects the City’s commitment to accessible, multimodal transportation.”

Although the project is in its design phase, community outreach and public involvement will begin in August 2025. Resident feedback will play a key role in shaping the final design to ensure it aligns with local priorities and neighborhood needs.

Public input to shape project design

As part of the city’s commitment to transparency and community collaboration, a public open house will be held at Washougal Community Center on Aug. 21 from 5 to 7 p.m. This event will provide residents with an opportunity to:

• Learn more about the Shepherd Road Pedestrian Connection Project
• View preliminary design concepts
• Ask questions directly to project staff
• Share feedback and concerns to help guide final design decisions

“This corridor has been the subject of numerous resident concerns over the years — from speeding to unsafe parking and lack of sidewalks. These challenges have impacted multiple city departments — including Police, Code Enforcement, Engineering, and Streets — highlighting the need for a comprehensive solution,” said Collins. “We want to make sure the community is actively involved as we move forward.”

Public involvement is a key component of the project, ensuring that the final design addresses safety, access, and mobility from the community’s perspective. In addition to the open house, additional outreach efforts and updates will be shared throughout the project’s development.

The project is primarily funded by a $3.47 million state grant from the Transportation Improvement Board (TIB), with an additional $868,000 in local Transportation Impact Fees. Construction is estimated to begin in summer 2026, with completion expected by fall 2026, pending permitting and weather conditions. Project phases include data collection, design, permitting, right-of-way coordination, and public outreach. Temporary impacts during construction will include detours, access limitations, dust, noise, and potential delays in reaching Sandy Swimming Hole.

The Shepherd Road Pedestrian Connection Project aligns with Washougal’s Strategic Plan under the Core Services priority by securing outside grant funding and delivering essential infrastructure improvements that promote safety, mobility, and quality of life. The project reinforces the city’s focus on fiscally responsible investments that enhance core services while preparing for future growth and community needs.

For more information and future updates, visit https://cityofwashougal.us.

Information provided by the city of Washougal.