Installing a conventional stoplight has been deemed the most appropriate solution to the Oak Harbor and Ault Field roads intersection quandary.

Island County initially hired a consultant to evaluate alternatives for the intersection. Installing a roundabout was another option, but one that could potentially take up more of the right-of-way.

Bill Oakes, Public Works director, presented the plan to the county commissioners at a staff session this month. Looking into the future, a stoplight and widened queue lanes for traffic entering Whidbey Island Naval Air Station makes the most sense, he said. The intersection at Ault Field and Goldie roads also funnels vehicles onto the thoroughfare.

“Both of these intersections feed that main gate,” Oakes said.

The stoplight and lane-widening project would cost approximately $1.2 million, half of which would come from federal funding.

The design phase alone could take up to 12 months to complete. Acquiring more right-of-way would extend the timeline another six months.

A recent, poorly attended open house was held to provide information to residents about the intersection options. Once the design phase is complete, another open house will likely be held to give specifics about the project.