Seattle, WA — The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has commenced a multi-year preservation effort on the I-5 Ship Canal Bridge, aiming to repair decades of wear and prevent frequent, unplanned traffic disruptions. wsdot.wa.gov
Project Background & Need
Built in the 1960s, the I-5 Ship Canal Bridge serves as a critical link for nearly 240,000 vehicles daily, making it one of the busiest highway segments in Washington. wsdot.wa.gov Although the bridge last received a major preservation effort around 40 years ago, the deck has deteriorated significantly. Since 2019, WSDOT crews have had to carry out more than 200 emergency repairs—interruptions that often caught drivers off guard. wsdot.wa.gov
Scope & Schedule of Work
The “Revive I-5” project will include resurfacing the upper bridge deck, replacing aging expansion joints, improving drainage systems, and addressing other critical maintenance needs. wsdot.wa.gov Major construction begins in summer 2025, with full work stretching through 2027. wsdot.wa.gov
To facilitate this, WSDOT is rolling out six weekends of southbound lane reductions beginning October 2025, from Friday nights (as early as 10 p.m.) through Monday mornings (by 5 a.m.). wsdot.wa.gov In subsequent years, long-term northbound and southbound lane reductions—and periodic full directional closures—will be required to complete the preservation work. wsdot.wa.gov Notably, work is expected to pause during the 2026 FIFA World Cup so that all lanes remain open. wsdot.wa.gov
While under weekend closures, the I-5 Express Lanes will continue operating southbound 24/7 to help ease congestion. wsdot.wa.gov
Cost & Funding
The total project cost is estimated at $203 million, with funding drawn from federal programs authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), along with state-level transportation accounts. wsdot.wa.gov
Public Impact & Advice to Commuters
Drivers should expect delays during major work periods and plan accordingly. WSDOT encourages use of public transit options, many of which offer more reliable travel during construction phases. wsdot.wa.gov Additionally, because work zones pose increased safety risks, WSDOT reminds motorists to slow down and keep full attention while driving through them. wsdot.wa.gov
Why It Matters
By undertaking this preservation now, WSDOT aims to extend the bridge’s service life and reduce the frequency of emergency repairs that cause last-minute congestion and closures. In doing so, the agency seeks to support regional mobility, economic activity, and community connectivity for years to come.