Date:
Monday, July 23, 2007
Contact:
Ryan Bianchi, WSDOT Communications, (425) 405-1785 (Everett), Cell (206) 786-4079
Connie Lewis, WSDOT Communications, (425) 405-1796 (Everett)
EVERETT – Relief is on the way. One of the worst daily backups in our state is about to get better. This week Atkinson-CH2M Hill, the contractor working for WSDOT, plans to put the final touches on a brand new lane on northbound Interstate 5 between 41st Street and Highway 2 in Everett. This new lane will be the single most important traffic improvement for northbound I-5 drivers from the $263 million freeway widening project that’s been underway since September 2005. The lane will improve the flow and safety of the weaving pattern created by cars entering the freeway at 41st Street and cars getting ready to exit at US 2. Depending on weather, WSDOT plans to open the lane as soon as 7 a.m. on Wednesday, July 25.
Anyone who makes the evening commute on northbound I-5 through Everett knows what a daily struggle it is. While crews still have much work to complete before I-5 through Everett is working at its best, this new lane is a key element in solving the backup that often reaches I-405.
What else are we building to improve traffic?
When the project is complete by summer 2008, drivers will also have:
- A new HOV lane on northbound I-5 that will continue from SR 526 to just north of US 2
- A new general purpose lane on southbound I-5 from US 2 to SR 526
- An HOV lane on southbound I-5 between US 2 to SR 526
- Ramp meters on some on-ramps
- Traffic information devices including electronic advisory signs, and sensors embedded under the roadway used for the traffic flow map on the WSDOT webpage
Using funds from the state Legislature’s 2003 “nickel” gas tax and the 2005 Legislature’s transportation tax package, WSDOT has already opened a new right-hand exit ramp to Broadway and a new 41st Street bridge and three of its ramps.
You can find more details about the I-5 Everett HOV freeway expansion project by visiting www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/I5/HOVSR526toUS2/.
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