Northbound I-5 closure in Seattle this weekend could affect traffic beyond city limits

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will close northbound Interstate 5 from 11:59 p. m. on Aug. 15 until 5 a. m.

on Aug. 18 to restore the freeway to four lanes. During this period, drivers heading north must use the I-5 express lanes, which will be available to all vehicles for the weekend. The Cherry/Columbia on-ramp will open for general use from early Aug. 16 to early Aug.

18, although it typically serves HOV traffic only. Exiting to downtown from the express lanes will not be possible; drivers should take Edgar Martinez Drive or other designated exits instead. All on- and off-ramps to northbound I-5 north of the express lanes entrance will close at various times starting at 9 p. m. on Aug.

15, with some ramps closing as late as 11 p. m. This closure may affect traffic beyond Seattle, as drivers adjust their travel plans. WSDOT's maintenance work aims to improve road conditions, ensuring safer and more efficient travel for commuters. The impact of these closures highlights the ongoing challenges of urban infrastructure maintenance.