New development on the former Umatilla Army Depot site will likely necessitate changes to nearby interstate access points, according to a study of traffic patterns conducted on behalf of the Local Reuse Authority.

Matt Hughart of the consulting firm Kittelson and Associates said the hairpin turn at the Lamb-Weston interchange, where Lamb Road merges with Interstate 82 near its junction with Interstate 84, will not accommodate the type of commercial truck traffic that will likely come when parts of the old depot lands are opened up for industrial use.

The bottom line is the traffic generated is going to necessitate some changes, he said.

Hughart said a wider, more geographically friendly turn would allow large semi-trucks to make turns without swinging into the adjacent lane as they do now. No matter how developing the depot land pans out, he said, the change will be needed just to keep up with the growth of Hermiston and the nearby Weston area

The firm also looked at the Army Depot interchange leading from Interstate 84 to the depot lands at milepost 177. Hughart said if the National Guard plans to bring tanks and other heavy equipment through the bases front door, something will have to be done about the railroad underpass there, which is too small to accommodate that type of equipment. However, there are other ways to get into the base and Hughart said the Local Reuse Authority may decide a major project at that interchange isnt worth the cost.

The study also includes the interchange at Patterson Ferry Road, but Hughart said its likely that road wont get much more use than it does now and would only need minor adjustments, if any.

Hughart said the goal is to create a comprehensive, long-term transportation plan adopted by Umatilla County, Morrow County and the state.

At a public workshop on March 10 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. the firm will present options to the public. In the meantime Hughart said the public can direct thoughts on the issue to Don Chance, project manager for the Local Reuse Authority, at dochance@umadra.com or 541-481-3693.

Contact Jade McDowell at jmcdowell@eastoregonian.com or 541-564-4536.