Multiple agencies release traffic management plan for Ridgefield's Costco opening

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — State and local agencies have developed a traffic management plan in preparation for Ridgefield’s Costco opening.

The warehouse club is slated to open on Thursday, Aug. 29 at 8 a.m.

In an effort to reduce congestion, the national chain’s project team has joined the Ridgefield Police Department, Ridgefield Public Works, Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue, Washington State Patrol and the Washington State Department of Transportation in contributing to the management plan.

The city said drivers will choose one of two routes between the new store and Pioneer Street: one from North 56th Place and another from North 53rd Place and Pioneer Canyon Drive. Officials will install a temporary traffic signal at the latter route, to show residents the driving conditions in real time.

There will also be advance traffic warning signs, certified flaggers to direct drivers, an alternative entry point for emergency responders, a temporary parking lot for Costco staff and overflow, and “continuous monitoring of traffic queues.”

Ridgefield officials said residents will likely see peak traffic on Thursday evening and Saturday around 12 p.m. Those traveling on Pioneer Street are encouraged to choose an alternative route late on Thursday and Friday.

The same shopping center is expected to welcome a new In-N-Out Burger by 2025. Residents previously voiced concerns for what congestion would look like with both businesses.

KOIN 6 has reached out to the City of Ridgefield for its plans for traffic management after opening weekend.