Date:  Thursday, April 30, 2009

Contact: Patrick Conrad, WSDOT Communications, 206-440-4473 (Seattle)

SEATTLE – The start of boating season means that drivers should expect delays near the west side of Lake Washington on Saturday, May 2.

The Montlake Bridge (State Route 513) will be closed to all traffic from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. During the closure, nearly 900 boats will parade through the Montlake Cut as part of the opening ceremonies that signal the opening day of boating season.

During the closure crews will:

• close the Montlake Bridge to all vehicle and foot traffic from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• close the westbound SR 520 ramp to Montlake Boulevard from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• close the left turn lane of the eastbound SR 520 ramp to northbound Montlake Boulevard from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

"It's great to be a part, albeit a small part, of such a great Seattle tradition," said Archie Allen, WSDOT Bridge Maintenance Superintendent. "Our bridge tender gets a front row seat and the bridge tower also serves as a broadcast booth.”

Boating season increases the number and duration of Montlake Bridge openings. Drivers who use SR 513 in this area between May and September should plan for 15-minute delays.

WSDOT operates 17 moveable bridges in the state of Washington. Rules and regulations are in place to help keep vehicle and marine traffic moving.

Drivers can check the real-time traffic cameras before they leave to check congestion levels in the area. www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/seattle/sr520_montlake.htm#cam

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