Active Capital Improvement Projects

Capital improvement projects through public works focus on infrastructure and services that benefit the whole community, such as streets, sidewalks, utilities, and public facilities. Active capital improvement projects are funded by the City of Gig Harbor, often with the help of state, federal, or grant dollars.

The list of major active projects is available in the left-hand navigation. All projects coordinated by the city are listed in our interactive StoryMap platform, where you’ll find details and progress updates on the city’s current projects designed to improve safety, mobility, and quality of life in our community. 

Construction Traffic Alerts: Visit our City Projects Traffic Map to see upcoming impacts. Want to get email or text notifications on traffic alerts? Subscribe here.

City vs. private development

Community development projects are privately funded and coordinated by developers or property owners, and typically involve new construction or redevelopment of housing, businesses, or other private property improvements. Information on these types of projects, including permitting, zoning information, and public notices, can be found through the city’s Planning Division web page, which is part of the city’s community development department.

Resources for safer streets and smarter travel

The city is working to improve our infrastructure and modernize our roads for safer, smoother travel. These improvements don’t just pave the way for better mobility; they reflect the vision outlined in Gig Harbor’s 2024 Comprehensive Plan Update.

In addition, everyone in our community can help by keeping up to date on the basic rules and traffic laws in our state. An informed and attentive driver is a safe driver. Thank you for doing your part to keep our community a safe place to drive, pedal, and walk!

Gig Harbor’s first flashing yellow left-turn arrow

The City of Gig Harbor has its first flashing yellow left-turn arrow at the intersection of Wollochet Drive and Wagner Way. This new signal is part of a safety standard used across the country to make intersections safer and easier to navigate.

When you see a flashing yellow arrow in the left-turn lane, it means you may make your turn with caution. Before turning, you must yield to oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists. Once the way is clear, you can complete your turn safely.

Remember: when navigating a flashing yellow light at an intersection…

  • Slow Down: Reduce your speed as you approach the intersection.
  • Be Alert: Pay close attention to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles that may be in or near the intersection.
  • Proceed with Caution: If the way is clear, you can proceed through the intersection without stopping.
  • Yield if Necessary: Be prepared to yield to other traffic or pedestrians if they have the right-of-way.
  • Flashing Yellow Arrow: If the flashing yellow light is part of a left-turn arrow, you can turn left, but you must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians

Download this graphic from the Washington State Department of Transportation. (PDF)

Why a flashing yellow arrow?

The flashing yellow turn arrow gives drivers more opportunities to make a safe left turn, which helps keep traffic moving and reduces wait times at intersections, all while maintaining strong safety standards by requiring drivers to yield to oncoming cars, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Learn more

Washington State Driver’s Guide pg. 3-2.

MUTCD Section 4A.04 §B. 2.

RCW 46.61.065 – Flashing signals.

RCW 46.61.055 – Traffic control signal legend.

Roundabouts and traffic circles

A modern roundabout is an engineered intersection designed to improve safety and traffic flow. Vehicles travel counterclockwise at low speeds, and drivers entering the roundabout must yield to traffic already circulating. Roundabouts can be built with a variety of specific safety features, such as splitter islands or raised central islands, to reduce severe collisions. Learn more about the roundabout planned for 38th Avenue here.

A traffic circle is a larger, older-style circular intersection often found in residential areas or historic neighborhoods. Traffic circles may allow higher speeds, may not require drivers to yield before entering, and often operate more like traditional intersections. They are generally built for neighborhood calming or aesthetics rather than comprehensive safety improvements.

Additional roundabout resources

How to Drive a Roundabout 

Roundabouts - WSDOT

Washington Driver Guide