Drivers rejoice! The construction at Steptoe Street and Tapteal Drive in Richland is finally completed. 

What was once a T-shaped intersection where Tapteal Drive terminated at Steptoe is now a four-way intersection with a stoplight and a railroad crossing through its center. Work to realign the intersection has been underway since February, and drivers have experienced lane closures and backups, plus an overnight closure. 

The project was funded by a private developer but included partnership from the city of Richland, as well as the Port of Benton, which owns the rail line through the intersection. The railroad crossing was completely rebuilt as part of the project.  

The new intersection provides access to the currently vacant property to the west side of Steptoe, where a future assisted living and memory care community is set to be built.