Nisqually Roundabout Construction
Project summary
In early April, construction will begin on a new roundabout at the intersection of State Route 7 and Mashel Prairie Road near Nisqually State Park. Work is anticipated for completion by the end of November 2025, weather permitting.
Crews will construct a modern, one-lane roundabout with a raised center island. The island will include art contributed by the Nisqually Tribe, landscaping, and a welcome sign for the new state park. Other features include a truck apron for larger trucks and emergency vehicles to drive onto when navigating the roundabout, 4-foot paved and two-foot gravel shoulders, street lighting and stormwater drainage and dispersion.
Nisqually State Park will be closed until fall of 2025 for ongoing park development, including this project.
- Location: Nisqually State Park
- Estimated start date: April 7, 2025
- Estimated end date: End of July 2025
Impacts
The intersection will not close at any point during construction, but drivers should expect delays. Flaggers will be at the site to help direct traffic.
All traffic will still be able to pass through the area during construction, this includes passenger vehicles, semitrucks, and trucks pulling trailers.
Learn more about roundabouts and how to navigate them here.
More information
This intersection is a main thoroughfare from the Olympia and Tacoma area to the Paradise Entrance at Mt. Rainier National Park. It is also used frequently by local residents and people visiting Nisqually State Park. The existing intersection of SR 7 and Mashel Prairie Road is on a corner with limited visibility, so the new roundabout will make it safer for people visiting state park, SR 7 motorists and local residents.
Parks appreciates the patience of the community and visitors while construction is completed.
Project history
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is facilitating this work as part of the development of Nisqually State Park. After the roundabout is complete, it will be managed by the Washington Department of Transportation. Parks and the Nisqually Tribe will maintain the art and landscaping in the roundabout’s center island.
Learn more about Nisqually State Park development here.