Major Preservation Work Begins on Seattle’s Ship Canal Bridge
Road crews are currently working on the drains and expansion joints of Seattle’s Ship Canal Bridge, marking the first major preservation project on the structure in over 40 years. This essential maintenance is part of a broader effort to ensure the bridge remains safe and functional for years to come.
As part of this work, northbound I-5 is being reduced to just two lanes across the bridge for the next four weeks, until August 15. During this time, the express lanes on I-5 will only be available for northbound traffic, operating 24/7. This change has significantly impacted commuters, especially those traveling southbound.
On Monday, the first day of the closure following the weekend, many drivers were caught off guard by the increased congestion. Southbound commuters faced long delays, with some experiencing traffic jams that stretched for miles. Dylan Marchand, a resident of Northgate, shared his experience of a normally five-minute commute turning into nearly 30 minutes due to the unexpected slowdowns.
“I got on the highway and I forgot they’re totally shut down,” Marchand said, highlighting the confusion many drivers felt. Despite prior warnings from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), the sudden changes led to widespread frustration among commuters.
WSDOT emphasized that the bridge work is necessary and urged drivers to adjust their travel habits. A spokesperson for the agency, Tom Pearce, explained that while it may take some time for drivers to adapt, most find alternative routes or methods of transportation.
“Generally, people do adapt. They think about taking other routes, they carpool, or they use public transit,” Pearce said. He encouraged drivers to plan ahead and consider options such as carpooling or using regional transit systems.
The impact of the closure was particularly noticeable for those coming south from Snohomish County. Commuters from Lynnwood reported delays of up to an hour, with traffic backups extending far beyond the bridge itself. Kim Wilkowski, a Lynnwood resident, opted for the light rail instead of driving, expressing her gratitude for the alternative.
“The downtown traffic is always terrible. I took the light rail and I’m so thankful for it,” she said.
In addition to the main highway, the closure has also caused increased congestion on side streets and local roads. WSDOT is urging drivers to pay close attention to detour signs and stay updated through official channels, including social media platforms.
Tips for Navigating the Changes
To help ease the transition during this period, drivers should:
- Plan their routes in advance and consider alternative paths.
- Use public transportation, carpool, or explore ride-sharing options.
- Stay informed by checking WSDOT updates and following official social media accounts.
- Be patient and flexible, as traffic patterns may shift during the construction period.
With careful planning and awareness, commuters can navigate the changes more effectively and minimize the impact on their daily routines. The temporary disruptions are a necessary step in ensuring the long-term safety and functionality of the Ship Canal Bridge.
