Longview residents should plan for significant road closures starting mid-August, as WSDOT announces maintenance work on SR 522, I-90, and SR 526 from August 4–7. Additionally, I-405 and SR 527 lane closures will continue through July 31, with overnight shifts on I-405 southbound lanes and SR 527. SR 532 will shift westbound for paving from 9 p.m. August 2 to 4 a.m. August 3.
The 1980s-era totem pole at Lake Sacajawea Park was lowered Friday, July 28, for damage assessment after being deemed unsafe. Officials confirmed no replacement is planned if the pole is damaged. The park’s totem pole removal follows a prior article confirming its removal due to crumbling.
Longview is adding a new RiverCities Transit stop at 12th & Maple and improving pedestrian crossings on Nichols Blvd. A public survey on pedestrian improvements will be conducted, with the city also warning of permit payment scams to residents.
The Washington Primary Election registration deadline is August 4. The Cowlitz Transit Board Composition Hearing is scheduled for August 12 to review board structure. Meanwhile, protests continue at Williamson and South Baldwin Streets for Corey Ruiz, who was fatally shot by police on Wednesday, with a memorial remaining strong through Saturday.
What to watch next: The August 4 primary election deadline and the August 12 transit board hearing will shape local governance. Roadwork closures through July 31 and August 4–7 will impact daily commutes.