Date:  Friday, October 10, 2008

Contact: WSDOT 24-hour pager, 206.437.6314

SHORELINE – Drivers will want to prepare for possible delays and some big changes on area highways beginning today:

• New I-90 westbound HOV lane: This lane is now in place for westbound I-90 drivers between Bellevue and Mercer Island. A new double white line separates this lane from the general purpose lane between Bellevue Way and the entrance to the I-90 express lanes. This prevents last second merging and weaving.

• New I-90 westbound direct access ramp: A new direct access ramp allows westbound carpools, vanpools and transit to enter the I-90 HOV lane from Bellevue Way SE without having to merge across three lanes of traffic. A double white line will restrict access from the HOV lane to E. Mercer Way. For more information about the new I-90 HOV lanes, visit our the project page: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/I90/TwoWayTransit

• US 2 trestle restriping: We will close all I-5 exits to US 2 near Everett tonight beginning at 9:30 p.m. for restriping. Exits will be fully closed at midnight. The restriping work will shift the existing lanes and create a wider, 14-foot right shoulder. When signing is complete this winter, drivers will be allowed to use the shoulder during weekdays. For specific closure information and to learn more about this project to relieve congestion on the trestle, www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2008/10/9_US2TrestleRestripe.htm

• I-5 lane closures in Pierce and Thurston counties: Multiple lane closures will squeeze down northbound traffic to one lane in the Nisqually and Lakewood areas beginning tonight. Crews plan to replace worn out concrete panels. For specific closure information, visit www.wsdot.wa.gov/Regions/Olympic/Construction/

Know before you go

Drivers are advised to check traffic conditions beforehand by visiting: www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic

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