In August 2004, the first phase of four-laning U.S. Highway 12 in Walla Walla County was completed.
   The project, finished ahead of schedule and no budget, widened the narrow two-lane roadway into a divided four-lane highway.
   To commemorate the completion

of the first phase, the U.S. Highway 12 Coalition commissioned Walla Walla Artist Joyce Anderson to create an original watercolor illustration of the finished work.
   Anderson 's painting of the new highway passing through the Casey Pond area captures the Washington

State Department of Transportation's commitment to improving the safety of U.S. Highway 12 while protecting and enhancing the environmental character of the area.
   A copy of Anderson 's commemorative piece may be obtained by contacting the Port of Walla Walla at (509) 252-3100.