In just a few weeks, a very large $100 million new industry business facility will open in Centralia. I am referring to, of course, the 1.2 million-square-foot UNFI grocery distribution center, located on Galvin Road.
The information shared so far with the community indicates several hundred employees will be traveling to work daily to reach this facility. This alone will create much congestion on Galvin Road, and coupled with the large numbers of semi-trucks entering and leaving the facility, it is clearly evident massive traffic congestion problems will soon emerge.
This problem is even more obvious with the lack of existing turn lanes at the intersection of Galvin Road and Harrison Avenue, near Fords Prairie School.
I have yet to read or be told about why this obvious concern had not been addressed before the near completion of UNFI.
Personally, as a past CEO of the Twin City Chamber of Commerce, I am very pleased this progressive new business has located in Centralia. The desirable benefits will be felt throughout the entire Southwest Washington area; unfortunately, some pre-planning regarding traffic congestion was not adequately addressed in the early developmental stages. Is it now too late?
Dan Duffy
Centralia
