WSDOT apologizes after extensive traffic mess during I-405 construction work over the weekend
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WSDOT apologizes after frustrated drivers face travel delays on I-405
After recent construction and closures on I-405 caused miles-long backups, the Washington Department of Transportation is working to improve its communication. The WSDOT issued an apology on its Facebook page this week. The project, which was originally scheduled to last through Monday, wrapped up ahead of schedule with lanes reopening Sunday. From July 11 to 14, southbound I- 405 will be closed through Kirkland, with a northbound closure in Renton from State Route 169 to State Route 900. The Revive I-5 project is also set to begin later this month.
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RENTON, Wash. — As Fourth of July celebrations approach, thousands of drivers across Washington are preparing for what could be a challenging holiday commute.
This come following last weekend’s significant traffic backups on Interstate 405 due to a paving project. Officials with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) said luckily there will be no construction projects during the holiday weekend.
The WSDOT issued an apology on its Facebook page this week after an extensive paving project on I-405 northbound near Kirkland caused traffic to stretch up to five miles, reaching as far as Interstate 90.
Some frustrated drivers were even seen driving the wrong way on ramps in an attempt to escape the gridlock.
“We like to own our mistakes. And if we’re making mistakes, we want to acknowledge that, we want to learn from them,” said Craig Smiley, a WSDOT communications representative.
Residents living near the construction zone described the scene as “bumper to bumper as far as you can see.” The project, which was originally scheduled to last through Monday, wrapped up ahead of schedule with lanes reopening Sunday. However, for many drivers, the early completion was too late to avoid hours of delays.
“It’s a puzzle to put together all these closures and try to minimize them as much as we possibly can,” Smiley said.
WSDOT officials say they are working to improve communication with local partners, including cities and law enforcement, to better alert motorists and help them navigate detours during future closures.
Looking ahead, Smiley is warning drivers of additional closures later this summer.
From July 11 to 14, southbound I-405 will be closed through Kirkland, with a northbound closure in Renton from State Route 169 to State Route 900, and a southbound closure of SR 167 in Kent. The Revive I-5 project is also set to begin later this month.
WSDOT recommends travelers plan ahead, carpool, or use public transit when possible to help ease congestion.
When asked if these lessons will lead to smoother travels for the rest of the summer, Smiley replied, “Talk to me in October.”