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  <channel>
    <title>WSDOT - 2011</title>
    <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/</link>
    <copyright>
          Copyright WSDOT 2008. All rights reserved.
        </copyright>
    <description></description>
    <managingEditor>
          bertraj@wsdot.wa.gov (Jeremy Bertrand)
        </managingEditor>
    <generator>
          Washington State Department of Transportation
        </generator>
    <lastBuildDate>Mon, 20 May 2013 01:27:54 GMT</lastBuildDate>
    <ttl>
          15
        </ttl>
    <image>
      <title>WSDOT - 2011</title>
      <url>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Public/images/nav/wsdot2g4.gif</url>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/</link>
    </image>
    <item>
      <title>Tolling on 520 day 2: Good To Go! for 2012</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 31 Dec 2011 11:23:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/30_520tollingday2.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/30_520tollingday2.htm</guid>
      <description>Evening rush hour was predictably light for the second day of tolling on the SR 520 floating bridge. As 2011 comes to a close, drivers prepare for changes to their commute on Tuesday.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Tolling on 520 day 2: Looking ahead</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 31 Dec 2011 05:13:04 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/30_Day2tolling_am.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/30_Day2tolling_am.htm</guid>
      <description>The second morning of tolling on the State Route 520 bridge Friday went much like the first – smooth sailing. Traffic was even lighter this morning than the first day of tolling and alternate routes Interstate-90 and SR 522 experienced no travel delays.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Construction begins next week on US 2 roundabout near Sultan</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 31 Dec 2011 01:24:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/30_2RiceRoadRoundabout.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/30_2RiceRoadRoundabout.htm</guid>
      <description>Work begins Jan. 3 on a roundabout at the US 2/Rice Road intersection in Sultan.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Smooth first day of tolling on SR 520 floating bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 30 Dec 2011 11:12:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/29_SR520TOLLINGFIRSTDAY.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/29_SR520TOLLINGFIRSTDAY.htm</guid>
      <description>Tolling on the State Route 520 bridge began as planned at 5 a.m. today, when the first tolled car since June 1979 crossed the bridge.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Tolling starts on SR 520 floating bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 30 Dec 2011 03:47:07 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/29_Day1520Toll.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/29_Day1520Toll.htm</guid>
      <description>The State Route 520 floating bridge became a tolled bridge at 5 a.m. today. After a record-breaking day of new Good To Go! accounts Wednesday, most drivers saved money with a pass. Tolls collected will help pay for a new floating bridge scheduled to open in late 2014.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Ground breaks on West Coast Electric Highway</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 29 Dec 2011 04:19:54 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/28_BellinghamEVcharging.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/28_BellinghamEVcharging.htm</guid>
      <description>The future of long-distance, zero-emissions travel begins right in Bellingham, where construction is starting on the state’s first public charging station that can recharge electric vehicles in 30 minutes.

It’s the first sign of a border-to-border network of public electric-vehicle charging stations and the first stop on Washington’s segment of the West Coast Electric Highway along 276 miles of Interstate 5 between the state’s borders with Oregon and Canada.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Tolling starts Thursday on SR 520, all systems Good To Go!</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 29 Dec 2011 02:47:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/28_1daytotolling.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/28_1daytotolling.htm</guid>
      <description>All drivers in the Central Puget Sound Region should prepare for the start of tolling on the State Route 520 bridge at 5 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 29.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Tolling on SR 520 bridge starts Dec. 29</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 28 Dec 2011 03:01:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/27_520toll2days.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/27_520toll2days.htm</guid>
      <description>With State Route 520 tolling less than 48 hours away, drivers are getting prepared. While Good To Go! customer service centers were closed Sunday for the holiday, drivers went online and activated more than 650 accounts. By Tuesday, the total number of accounts activated since February rose to more than 135,000. 
Despite the big numbers, the Washington State Department of Transportation would still like to see more accounts activated by Dec. 29, the day tolling begins on the SR 520 bridge, whic</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Expert panel wrapping up review on Viaduct project financing</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 23 Dec 2011 05:20:35 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/22_AWV-erp-update.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/22_AWV-erp-update.htm</guid>
      <description>An expert review panel assessing the Washington State Department of Transportation’s finance plan for replacing the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct will release its findings and recommendations to the state Legislature in February.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Final countdown to tolling on SR 520 bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 23 Dec 2011 02:46:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/22_TollingOneWeek.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/22_TollingOneWeek.htm</guid>
      <description>Tolling on the State Route 520 floating bridge starts at 5 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 29. That means drivers have T-minus seven days and counting to save $1.50 per toll by purchasing a Good To Go! pass, opening an account and activating the pass.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>White Christmas? Pack patience and tire chains</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:56:40 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/21_chirstmastravel2011.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/21_chirstmastravel2011.htm</guid>
      <description>A white Christmas? Could be – at least in the mountains. Travelers should plan to pack tire chains and a winter kit alongside presents before hitting the road.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 toll signs unveiling starts Dec. 18</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 17 Dec 2011 06:03:18 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/16_520Tollsigns.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/16_520Tollsigns.htm</guid>
      <description>Monday morning, Dec. 19, drivers will have another indication that State Route 520 tolling is just around corner — signs that indicate the bridge is tolled. crews will start uncovering and installing more than 40 signs along SR 520, Interstate 5 and Interstate 405, as well as city streets leading to SR 520. Tolling starts at 5 a.m. on Dec. 29.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New US 2 ramp to ease congestion in Monroe</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 17 Dec 2011 03:36:56 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/17_US2Ramp.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/17_US2Ramp.htm</guid>
      <description>New US 2 ramp to ease congestion in Monroe</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Hillside work closes I-5 lane south of Bellingham</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 09 Dec 2011 01:02:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/08_i5hillsiderepairs.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/08_i5hillsiderepairs.htm</guid>
      <description>Hillside work closes one lane of I-5 near Bellingham starting next week as crews remove loose rocks and trees from the slope above, and in particular one very large rock described as being the size of a motor home.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>It’s official: Tolling on SR 520 bridge starts Dec. 29</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/7_sr520tollsstartdec29.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/7_sr520tollsstartdec29.htm</guid>
      <description>Tolling on the State Route 520 bridge starts December 29, 2011</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 167 HOT lanes revenue exceeds operational costs</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Dec 2011 05:52:05 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/2011_12_06_ThirdHOTLanes.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/2011_12_06_ThirdHOTLanes.htm</guid>
      <description>The HOT Lanes on State Route 167 have accelerated into the black, according to the SR 167 Third Annual HOT Lanes Performance Summary released today by the Washington State Department of Transportation.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Open house Wednesday on SR 520 design in Seattle</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 06 Dec 2011 05:46:10 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/_05_SR520_DesignOpenHouse.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/_05_SR520_DesignOpenHouse.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – A range of design refinements shaped by public input for the future State Route 520 in Seattle will be available at an open house this week, allowing commuters and residents to continue to weigh in on potential design elements.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Comments sought on four-year program of transportation projects</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 03 Dec 2011 06:20:15 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/Draft2012STIP.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/Draft2012STIP.htm</guid>
      <description>Comments sought on four-year program of transportation projects</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Public comments sought on rural and special needs mobility programs</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 03 Dec 2011 03:20:23 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/02_RuralandSpecialNeedsPrograms.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/02_RuralandSpecialNeedsPrograms.htm</guid>
      <description>Public comments sought on rural and special needs mobility programs</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Photo tolling on the Tacoma Narrows Bridge starts Dec. 3</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 02 Dec 2011 06:23:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/01_TNBPhotoTollingStarts.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/12/01_TNBPhotoTollingStarts.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers who cross the Tacoma Narrows Bridge will have additional options starting this weekend. On Saturday, Dec. 3, the Washington State Department of Transportation will activate photo tolling and introduce more ways to pay for a toll.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Milepost 31: Dig into Seattle’s past, present and future</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 01 Dec 2011 04:51:15 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/30_Milepost31GrandOpening.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/30_Milepost31GrandOpening.htm</guid>
      <description>The world's largest-diameter tunnel boring machine won't start digging beneath Pioneer Square until 2013, but the public won’t have to wait until then to dig into the State Route 99 Tunnel Project or the historic neighborhood where the record-breaking machine will begin its journey.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Arlington roundabout to be built next year</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 23 Nov 2011 06:00:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/22_sr9-531roundaboutproject.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/22_sr9-531roundaboutproject.htm</guid>
      <description>It’s time for an extreme makeover - highway edition - at a busy intersection in Arlington. What is now a congested traffic signal at the intersection of state routes 9 and 531 will soon be transformed into a modern, efficient roundabout.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 20 – North Cascades Highway closes for winter</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:45:50 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/21SR20NCHcloses.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/21SR20NCHcloses.htm</guid>
      <description>Last Tuesday's temporary closure becomes permanent due to increasing avalanche danger.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Federal rail funding advances King Street Station restoration</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 22 Nov 2011 06:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/21_KingStreetStationfunding.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/21_KingStreetStationfunding.htm</guid>
      <description>The Washington State Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad Administration signed agreements today, Nov. 21, securing $16.7 million in federal high-speed-rail funds to support the next phase of the King Street Station restoration project. The station is the busiest in the Pacific Northwest, serving nearly half a million Amtrak Cascades passengers in 2010.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT, Port of Seattle and Sound Transit honor 2011 ‘Champions of Inclusion’ for their work with disadvantaged businesses</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 22 Nov 2011 03:14:25 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/21_ChampionsOfInclusionAward.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/21_ChampionsOfInclusionAward.htm</guid>
      <description>The Washington State Department of Transportation, the Port of Seattle and Sound Transit honored contractors on their projects – Seattle Tunnel Partners, Manson Construction Co. and Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc., respectively – for their outreach and inclusion of small and disadvantaged businesses in construction projects. The agencies presented their “Champion of Inclusion” awards at an event Nov. 16 at the Port of Seattle.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>What makes a good holiday trip? Knowing before you go</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 19 Nov 2011 02:13:53 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/18_Thanksgiving2011.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/18_Thanksgiving2011.htm</guid>
      <description>As the holidays draw near and temperatures drop, the Washington State Department of Transportation has tips on how to be ready for winter weather driving and avoid Thanksgiving holiday weekend highway backups.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Seattle shipyard selected to build new Eastern Washington ferry</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Nov 2011 01:11:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/17_KellerFerry.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/17_KellerFerry.htm</guid>
      <description>Foss Maritime Co. of Seattle will build a replacement 20-car state ferry to operate on Lake Roosevelt, a remote location requiring the ferry be built in sections and transported across the state.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Snow showers forecast for Friday morning commute</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:31:25 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/17_PrepareForFridayIcyCommute.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/17_PrepareForFridayIcyCommute.htm</guid>
      <description>The Friday morning commute could be a wintry one for Puget Sound if weather forecasts are accurate and snow showers move into the area.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 20 North Cascades Highway temporarily closing</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 Nov 2011 07:36:25 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/15SR20NCHwyTempClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/15SR20NCHwyTempClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>SR 20, The North Cascades Highway is closing at 8 p.m. Tuesday Nov. 15 due to forecast heavy snowstorms.  Reopening will be reassessed Monday.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews fix worst broken sections of I-5 in Tukwila</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 Nov 2011 23:26:47 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/15_I-5+replacement.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/15_I-5+replacement.htm</guid>
      <description>The nightly lane closures are over in Tukwila and drivers now have smoother sections on I-5, just in time for fall rains.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Alaskan Way Viaduct work zone expands into Pioneer Square and waterfront</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 Nov 2011 06:36:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/14_AWV-expands-work-zone.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/14_AWV-expands-work-zone.htm</guid>
      <description>For the past three years, construction has been confined to a work zone west of Seattle’s stadiums for the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement project. Starting this month, though, state and city projects will expand construction work into Pioneer Square and along the downtown waterfront.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Wind, snow, avalanche danger close Chinook and Cayuse passes</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 Nov 2011 05:00:44 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/Chinookandcayuseclosed2011.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/Chinookandcayuseclosed2011.htm</guid>
      <description>Several feet of snowfall over the weekend sent Chinook (State Route 410) and Cayuse (State Route 123) passes into hibernation for the season.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-5 paving north of Burlington takes winter break</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 11 Nov 2011 05:55:11 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/10_Inter5JoeLearyWinterBreak.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/10_Inter5JoeLearyWinterBreak.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews working for WSDOT repaired and repaved nearly 24 lane miles of northbound I-5 this year between Burlington and Lake Samish, smoothing and preserving the highway for drivers.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Federal transportation grants put rides a click away for veterans in Washington</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 11 Nov 2011 00:32:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/10-Federal_vets_grants.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/10-Federal_vets_grants.htm</guid>
      <description>The Federal Transit Administration today announced the Washington State Department of Transportation will receive three grants totaling more than $737,000 to be distributed to selected veterans transportation projects. The grants are of the product of the Veterans Transportation and Community Living Initiative.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New Keller Ferry closer to reality with today’s bid opening</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 Nov 2011 04:55:41 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/08_KellerFerry.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/08_KellerFerry.htm</guid>
      <description>Foss Maritime Co. of Seattle is the apparent low bidder to build a new 20-car Keller Ferry to serve Washington’s only ferry route east of the Cascade Mountains.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Open house Wednesday on SR 520 design in Seattle</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 08 Nov 2011 06:27:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/07_SR520_SeattleOpenHouseNov9.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/07_SR520_SeattleOpenHouseNov9.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Commuters and residents can give feedback and comments at an open house this week to help refine the urban and sustainable design features for the future State Route 520 in Seattle.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 reopens after weekend of construction</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 07 Nov 2011 19:16:48 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/07_SR520Reopened.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/07_SR520Reopened.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Both directions of State Route 520 reopened on-time this morning after crews worked half the weekend to install massive concrete girders in Medina for a future lidded overpass and to create a wider median work zone on the Eastside.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Huge gate installed at SR 520 pontoon construction site</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 02:28:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/SR520PCPgate.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/SR520PCPgate.htm</guid>
      <description>Huge gate installed at SR 520 pontoon construction site</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Amtrak Cascades adds 11 more trains for busy Thanksgiving travel week</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 02:27:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/4_amtrak-cascades-thanksgiving.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/4_amtrak-cascades-thanksgiving.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Amtrak will add 11 trains along the Amtrak Cascades route between Portland and Seattle to accommodate the travel demand during the holiday week.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Washington’s TIGER III applications focus on mobility, environment and multimodal connections</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 06:47:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/03_TIGER3.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/03_TIGER3.htm</guid>
      <description>Washington’s TIGER III applications focus on mobility, environment and multimodal connections</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 floating bridge and highway to close Nov. 5-7</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 05:29:50 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/01_SR520WeekendClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/01_SR520WeekendClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>BELLEVUE – Construction crews install another 22 huge concrete girders this weekend for a new lidded overpass in Medina, closing the State Route 520 floating bridge and highway Saturday night through Monday morning for the work.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>ViaDone: Alaskan Way Viaduct ready for first commute</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 19:12:09 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/SR99ReopensForMonday.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/SR99ReopensForMonday.htm</guid>
      <description>After a week of clogged and congested highways and city streets, commuters are back on the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct this morning, albeit traveling at a slower construction speed and navigating curves that will take some getting used to.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Alaskan Way Viaduct reopened to traffic early</title>
      <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 01:51:44 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/29_SR99Reopens.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/29_SR99Reopens.htm</guid>
      <description>The State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct reopened at 12:44 p.m. today – nearly two days early – following an intense week of demolition and construction.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Alaskan Way Viaduct to reopen midday Saturday</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 29 Oct 2011 00:29:03 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/28_SR99ReopensEarly.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/28_SR99ReopensEarly.htm</guid>
      <description>Great progress by demolition and construction crews means the Alaskan Way Viaduct is expected to reopen midday Saturday between the West Seattle Bridge and the Battery Street Tunnel, a move expected to help relieve recent regional traffic congestion on Interstates 5 and 405 and local streets.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New roundabout open on Mount Baker Highway near Deming</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 28 Oct 2011 05:59:27 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/27_sr542smithroundaboutopen.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/27_sr542smithroundaboutopen.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews completed paving and opened a new roundabout today, helping make it easier and safer to turn on and off Mount Baker Highway at East Smith Road.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Snow crews ready for La Niña double-dip</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 28 Oct 2011 05:03:35 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/27_snowcrewsreadyforlanina.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/27_snowcrewsreadyforlanina.htm</guid>
      <description>Weather experts are predicting La Niña is back for a double dip – and that means road crews and drivers should be prepared for another challenging winter. No matter what the weather brings, highway crews are ready for whatever blows in.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Heavy congestion expected Thursday afternoon as Alaskan Way Viaduct demolition nears completion</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 28 Oct 2011 04:13:50 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/27_SR99DemoNearsCompletion.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/27_SR99DemoNearsCompletion.htm</guid>
      <description>Demolition of the southern mile of the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct is right on schedule, but drivers will need to plan ahead if they want to stick to their schedules during heavy congestion expected for this afternoon’s commute.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Commuters continue to face gridlock during demolition of Alaskan Way Viaduct</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 27 Oct 2011 04:21:03 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/26_SR99TrafficGridlock.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/26_SR99TrafficGridlock.htm</guid>
      <description>Only a handful of days of demolition are left on the southern mile of the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct before the road reopens, and traffic continues to be heavy for morning and afternoon commuters as they seek alternate routes around the closure.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Tires, chains, being prepared - hot accessories this winter</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/26_2011_winter_ready.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/26_2011_winter_ready.htm</guid>
      <description>As the season’s fashion changes from shorts and sandals to umbrellas and scarves, don’t forget to update that other winter wardrobe – your vehicle’s.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Five days to go: Steady progress on Alaskan Way Viaduct demolition and construction</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 26 Oct 2011 05:04:53 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/25_CrewsMakeProgressOn99Demo.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/25_CrewsMakeProgressOn99Demo.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews continue to make great strides in the demolition of the southern mile of the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct. Today, crews will break up and remove massive chunks of already fallen concrete and rebar to make room for a construction bypass and future roadway. Crews also will remove a key section of the viaduct near South Royal Brougham Way so the new construction bypass can be striped and connected to new ramps to SR 99 in coming days.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Drivers pitch in during first commute of nine-day Alaskan Way Viaduct closure</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 25 Oct 2011 03:53:39 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/24_9DayClosureFirstCommute.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/24_9DayClosureFirstCommute.htm</guid>
      <description>It was the question on everyone’s mind: How would drivers react to the first morning commute during the nine-day closure on the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct?</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Contest winners will bring skates and stunts to the Alaskan Way Viaduct this Saturday</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 22 Oct 2011 03:29:39 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/21_awv-contest-winners.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/21_awv-contest-winners.htm</guid>
      <description>The Rat City Rollergirls will join the motorcycle stunt team Seattle Cossacks Saturday for the last – and most unusual – traffic “jam” on the south end of the Alaskan Way Viaduct. The two celebrated Seattle outfits beat out nearly 600 creative entries for “One Last Shot” to express themselves on the viaduct before it starts coming down.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Construction to repair US 2 trestle wraps up on schedule</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 21 Oct 2011 23:50:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/21_US2TrestleConstructionComplete.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/21_US2TrestleConstructionComplete.htm</guid>
      <description>Construction to repair girders on the US 2 trestle in Everett has wrapped up on schedule.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Eastbound lanes open to traffic as rock blasting and construction wrap for winter on I-90 over Snoqualmie Pass</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 21 Oct 2011 21:32:45 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/I-90eblanesopentotraffic.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/I-90eblanesopentotraffic.htm</guid>
      <description>The delays drivers experienced this week on Interstate 90 over Snoqualmie Pass are over. The new eastbound lanes opened to traffic just after 7 a.m. today.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>T-minus 1 day and counting until 9-day Alaskan Way Viaduct closure</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 20 Oct 2011 22:22:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/20_SR99ClosureBeginsOct21.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/20_SR99ClosureBeginsOct21.htm</guid>
      <description>When the clock strikes 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 21, the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct, as it is today, will cease to exist. With just one day remaining before crews close the viaduct and begin demolishing its southernmost mile, drivers should take a last practice run of their alternate plans to get around during the closure.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-5 congestion relief work wins national award</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:24:14 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/18_OperationI5WinsNationalAward.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/18_OperationI5WinsNationalAward.htm</guid>
      <description>I-5 congestion relief work wins national award</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 reopens after weekend of construction</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 17 Oct 2011 16:59:19 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/17_SR520_Reopens.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/17_SR520_Reopens.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Crews reopened both directions of State Route 520 this morning after working through the weekend to install massive concrete girders in Medina. Eastbound drivers also will see a slight traffic shift around a new median work zone east of 84th Avenue Northeast.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews close single lane of eastbound I-90 over Snoqualmie Pass for six days</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 15 Oct 2011 01:03:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/sixdayclosureonI90.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/sixdayclosureonI90.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers face delays of up to two hours or more on Snoqualmie Pass next week when crews close one lane of eastbound Interstate 90 for six days straight in preparation for opening a brand new section of highway.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Hitachi Zosen signs contract to build SR 99 tunnel boring machine</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 14 Oct 2011 05:03:47 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/13_TunnelBoringcontract-signed.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/13_TunnelBoringcontract-signed.htm</guid>
      <description>Hitachi Zosen Corp. of Japan cemented its role in the SR 99 Tunnel Project on Wednesday, signing a contract with Seattle Tunnel Partners to supply the machine that will tunnel beneath downtown Seattle.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Fixing the worst first on I-5 through Tukwila</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:51:29 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/12_i5panelrepairtukwila.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/12_i5panelrepairtukwila.htm</guid>
      <description>Ever had to check to see if your coffee spilled as you drove Interstate 5 in south King County? Those days are numbered as a project launches this week to tear out and replace the most damaged concrete in the Southcenter area.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 bridge and highway to close Oct. 15-17</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 12 Oct 2011 06:09:58 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/11_SR520_WeekendClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/11_SR520_WeekendClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>BELLEVUE – Construction crews will close SR 520 Saturday night through Monday morning to set 24 massive concrete girders as part of a new overpass in Medina. Husky fans will still be able to get to and from the game before the road closes for construction.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Commute Smart Awards celebrates 20 years</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 12 Oct 2011 05:17:21 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/11_CSA_Awards.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/11_CSA_Awards.htm</guid>
      <description>Two decades of saving commuters money, curbing air pollution, conserving fuel and easing traffic congestion were celebrated today at the 2011 Governor’s Commute Smart Awards.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Ten days and counting fast until Alaskan Way Viaduct shutdown</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2011 23:57:12 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/11_TenDaysUntil99Closure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/11_TenDaysUntil99Closure.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers and transit users have just 10 days to get ready for a nine-day closure of the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct so crews can demolish the southern mile of the seismically vulnerable double-deck structure.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT crane tips during bridge removal in Lewis County</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 10 Oct 2011 05:28:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/CranetipsLewisCounty.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/CranetipsLewisCounty.htm</guid>
      <description>MESKILL, Lewis County – A truck-mounted crane tipped over today while crews from the Washington State Department of Transportation and Lewis County were working to remove sections from a 180-foot bridge over the Chehalis River. Three minor injuries were reported in the accident.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Bridge over troubled water opens on SR 20 near Lyman</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 08 Oct 2011 01:40:58 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/07_RedCabinCrkBridgeOpen.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/07_RedCabinCrkBridgeOpen.htm</guid>
      <description>The Washington State Department of Transportation and contractor Interwest Construction Inc. of Burlington opened the new SR 20 Red Cabin Creek bridge on Thursday afternoon, Sept. 6.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Win contest and get exclusive access to the Alaskan Way Viaduct</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 06 Oct 2011 04:29:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/5_awv-contest.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/5_awv-contest.htm</guid>
      <description>What would you do if you had the Alaskan Way Viaduct all to yourself for 30 minutes, free of cars and people? Maybe celebrate a birthday, propose to your significant other or stage a flash mob? That’s what the Washington State Department of Transportation wants to know.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New map helps drivers go with flow on Snoqualmie Pass</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 04 Oct 2011 23:25:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/10_04I90flowmaps.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/10_04I90flowmaps.htm</guid>
      <description>Are you heading for recreation areas in eastern Washington or to the big cities on the west side this weekend? Regardless of which side of the state you pick, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is making it easier for you to plan your trip over Snoqualmie Pass</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Washington celebrates Walk to School month</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:43:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/10_03WalktoSchool.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/10/10_03WalktoSchool.htm</guid>
      <description>Washington celebrates Walk to School month</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>US 2 bridge repair work delayed near Index</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 30 Sep 2011 03:38:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/29_2AndersonCreekDelay.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/29_2AndersonCreekDelay.htm</guid>
      <description>Construction on the US 2 Anderson Creek bridge near Index has been delayed until April 2012</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Open house this Saturday on SR 520 design in Seattle</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 29 Sep 2011 22:50:18 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/29_SR520_DesignOpenHouse.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/29_SR520_DesignOpenHouse.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – As design and construction of improvements to the State Route 520 corridor move forward, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking feedback on urban design elements for the highway in Seattle.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Northbound I-405 closed this weekend in Bellevue</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 29 Sep 2011 03:56:23 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/28_I405NorthboundClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/28_I405NorthboundClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>Major changes to the way downtown Bellevue drivers get to and from work are coming this weekend.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Infraction notices to resume for tolling system</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:48:07 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/26_tnbinfractionnoticestoresume.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/26_tnbinfractionnoticestoresume.htm</guid>
      <description>Infraction notices to resume for tolling system
Tacoma Narrows Bridge drivers who didn’t pay will receive infractions</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Pontoons take shape for SR 520 floating bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 24 Sep 2011 04:00:13 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/SR520Pontoonwalls.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/SR520Pontoonwalls.htm</guid>
      <description>Pontoons take shape for SR 520 floating bridge ABERDEEN – Construction is shaping up from the inside out on new pontoons for State Route 520. Local officials today saw the first handful of precast concrete walls that soon will form the backbone of a new floating bridge across Lake Washington.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Targeted investments reduce congestion; continued improvements needed to rebuild economy</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 24 Sep 2011 01:15:44 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/23_2011CongestionReport.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/23_2011CongestionReport.htm</guid>
      <description>Puget Sound drivers probably won’t be surprised to learn that the most improved commute route in 2010 was the northbound Interstate 405 morning commute between Tukwila and Bellevue.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Northbound I-405 weekend closure postponed due to weather</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 24 Sep 2011 01:06:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/23_I-405ClosureCanceled.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/23_I-405ClosureCanceled.htm</guid>
      <description>BELLEVUE – The weekend forecast has cast a shadow on plans to close northbound I-405 this weekend. A 60 percent chance of rain on Sunday has postponed the closure until next weekend.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT saves lives, money with risk management program</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 22 Sep 2011 23:39:54 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/09_23RiskMgtJLARC.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/09_23RiskMgtJLARC.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT saves lives, money with risk management program</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>U.S. Department of Transportation Announces $31 Million to Improve Rail Service in Washington State</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 22 Sep 2011 01:22:33 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/21_USDOTAnnouncesAmtrakCascadesFunding.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/21_USDOTAnnouncesAmtrakCascadesFunding.htm</guid>
      <description>U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced $31.1 million for the State of Washington to improve intercity passenger and freight rail service on the Amtrak Cascades line.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Plan ahead: One month left until nine-day closure of SR 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 21 Sep 2011 00:28:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/20_NineDayViaductClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/20_NineDayViaductClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>In just over a month, the landscape of Seattle’s SODO neighborhood will forever change. On Friday, Oct. 21, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will close a majority of the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct for nine days as crews begin to demolish the structure’s southern mile.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Avoid weekend delays on southbound I-5 through Lynnwood</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 20 Sep 2011 22:34:03 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/20_I5LynnwoodWeekend.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/20_I5LynnwoodWeekend.htm</guid>
      <description>Anyone planning a trip to or through Lynnwood on Interstate 5 this weekend might want to consider a backup plan – or prepare for backups. The southbound I-5 on-ramps from Interstate 405 and State Route 525 will be closed all weekend, while crews complete new on-ramps and connect them to southbound I-5.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews to close northbound I-405 for weekend in Bellevue</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 20 Sep 2011 05:32:52 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/19_I-405WeekendClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/19_I-405WeekendClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>Major changes to the way downtown Bellevue drivers get to and from work are just a week away. On Friday, Sept. 23, crews will close northbound Interstate 405 for 53 hours. When crews reopen the road Monday morning, drivers headed to Redmond, Seattle and Kirkland will use new ramps to get to I-405 and State Route 520.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 reopens after weekend of construction</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 19 Sep 2011 17:37:44 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/19_SR520ReopensAfterWeekendConstruction.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/19_SR520ReopensAfterWeekendConstruction.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Crews reopened both directions of State Route 520 this morning after working through the weekend to demolish the western half of the Bellevue Way overpass and build crucial supports for a future lid over the highway in Medina.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Steel bridges inspected after nationwide FHWA recommendation</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 17 Sep 2011 05:07:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/16_steelbridgesreviewed.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/16_steelbridgesreviewed.htm</guid>
      <description>A review of state bridge-inspection records shows that 10 bridges made with AASHTO M270 steel in Washington state are in safe condition for daily travelers.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Narrows Bridge toll equipment reading new Good To Go! passes</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 16 Sep 2011 03:32:07 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/15_tnbequipmentreadingnewpasses.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/15_tnbequipmentreadingnewpasses.htm</guid>
      <description>Narrows Bridge toll equipment reading new Good To Go! passes</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Congestion relief on I-5 earns WSDOT national kudos</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 15 Sep 2011 01:27:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/14_I5_CongestionReliefEarnsWSDOTKudos.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/14_I5_CongestionReliefEarnsWSDOTKudos.htm</guid>
      <description>Congestion relief on I-5 earns WSDOT national kudos 
Solution to Lacey/DuPont morning commuter woes nets award nomination</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crunch time in Bellevue: SR 520 bridge and highway to close Sept. 16-19</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 13 Sep 2011 05:04:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/12_SR520WeekendClosureSept16_19.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/12_SR520WeekendClosureSept16_19.htm</guid>
      <description>BELLEVUE – It’s crunch time on State Route 520 this weekend as crews demolish the western half of the Bellevue Way Northeast overpass to make room for an improved interchange and future transit/HOV lanes on the highway.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Contractor selected for next I-90 project east of Snoqualmie Pass</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 10 Sep 2011 00:28:20 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/09_I90contractorselected.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/09_I90contractorselected.htm</guid>
      <description>For the last year, construction crews have been transforming a 50-year-old stretch of Interstate 90, east of Snoqualmie Pass, into a modern, wider and safer transportation corridor. And now, even more improvements are set to begin this month that will improve an additional two miles of I-90.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Road closures, special events tying up traffic in Seattle this weekend</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 09 Sep 2011 01:22:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/08_Seattleweekendtraffic.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/08_Seattleweekendtraffic.htm</guid>
      <description>Weekend congestion expected in Seattle Sept. 9-11</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Smoother exit ramps planned for SR 18 in Auburn</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 02 Sep 2011 01:36:51 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/090111_SR18rampspaving.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/090111_SR18rampspaving.htm</guid>
      <description>SR18 ramp closures in Auburn begin Sept 6 for paving project</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT gearing up to catch the next TIGER</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 02 Sep 2011 00:18:39 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/01_TIGER3grants.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/01_TIGER3grants.htm</guid>
      <description>OLYMPIA – Rounds one and two provided close to 1,500 jobs and now the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is gearing up for TIGER 3.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Local transportation projects receive Awards of Excellence</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 02 Sep 2011 00:11:07 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/01_2001AwardsofExcellence.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/09/01_2001AwardsofExcellence.htm</guid>
      <description>Local transportation projects achieved excellence in safety enhancements, construction, innovative design, environmental sustainability and community involvement, earning 2011 Awards of Excellence.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Mark your calendar - Nine-day closure of the SR 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct begins Oct. 21</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:18:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/9dayViaductClosureStartsOct21.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/9dayViaductClosureStartsOct21.htm</guid>
      <description>A nine-day closure of the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct will mark the beginning of the end for Seattle’s double-deck highway.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 reopens after weekend of construction</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 29 Aug 2011 22:35:14 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/_29_SR520Reopened.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/_29_SR520Reopened.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews have reopened both directions of State Route 520 this morning after working all weekend to install a massive fish-friendly culvert near Yarrow Point and develop a new work zone in Medina. Drivers are now navigating that work zone, where crews can safely build supports for a future lid above the highway.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 18 ramp in Federal Way reopens Friday night</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 27 Aug 2011 05:00:01 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/26_SR18RampReopens.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/26_SR18RampReopens.htm</guid>
      <description>SR 18 ramp in Federal Way reopens Friday night</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Updated CRC estimate cuts project cost by $100 million</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 27 Aug 2011 02:14:55 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/26_CRC_CutsProjectCost.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/26_CRC_CutsProjectCost.htm</guid>
      <description>The estimated construction cost for the Columbia River Crossing project decreased by $100 million due to recent decisions and increased certainty on the construction schedule.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Travel tools available to ease the pain of Labor Day travel</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 26 Aug 2011 22:33:05 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/26_LaborDay_2011.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/26_LaborDay_2011.htm</guid>
      <description>Labor Day is the year’s busiest travel weekend over Snoqualmie Pass on Interstate 90, and it’s not the only location in Washington that will feel the strain of additional travelers.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Learn about proposed Amtrak Cascades reroute at open house</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 26 Aug 2011 05:00:35 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/25_RailPDBOpenHouse.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/25_RailPDBOpenHouse.htm</guid>
      <description>Rerouting Amtrak Cascades trains from a waterfront Point Defiance route to a lesser-used inland route will improve reliability and lead to faster, more frequent service.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 bridge tolling to begin in December</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 25 Aug 2011 23:54:48 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/25_SR520TollingStartsDecember.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/25_SR520TollingStartsDecember.htm</guid>
      <description>Tolling on State Route 520 across Lake Washington, which will help pay to replace the vulnerable, 50-year-old floating bridge, will start in December.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT website, 511 information line unavailable Saturday night</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 25 Aug 2011 22:56:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/25_website_outage.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/25_website_outage.htm</guid>
      <description>The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) website, which receives more than 100,000 visits per day in the summer months, will get a much-needed update Saturday night</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Federal Highway Administration approves SR 99 tunnel to replace Alaskan Way Viaduct</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 24 Aug 2011 02:45:08 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/23_awv-rod.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/23_awv-rod.htm</guid>
      <description>After 10 years of environmental review and analysis, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) today signed a record of decision allowing the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to begin final design and construction of the State Route 99 tunnel beneath downtown Seattle. The tunnel will replace the double-deck Alaskan Way Viaduct along Seattle’s waterfront.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Fun and games everywhere but the highways Aug. 26-29</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 23 Aug 2011 03:43:04 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/22_SR520AugustWeekendClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/22_SR520AugustWeekendClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Travelers heading to a video game convention, sporting events and a 10k race in Seattle this weekend, Aug. 26 through 29, can expect major traffic congestion as construction crews close State Route 520.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-90 project recognized nationally for environmental partnerships</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 19 Aug 2011 23:11:53 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/I90partnershipaward.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/I90partnershipaward.htm</guid>
      <description>The Federal Highway Administration will award the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) the 2011 Environmental Excellence Award for the I-90 Snoqualmie Pass East Project on Monday, Aug. 22. The award recognizes transportation projects, processes and people who incorporate environmental stewardship into project planning and development.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Join an autumn tradition: help count bicyclists and pedestrians in Washington state</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 17 Aug 2011 23:41:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/2011BikePedCount.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/2011BikePedCount.htm</guid>
      <description>Join an autumn tradition: help count bicyclist and pedestrians in Washington state</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Bellevue bridge opens to two-way traffic next week</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 16 Aug 2011 05:22:58 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/15_405NE12BridgeOpening.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/15_405NE12BridgeOpening.htm</guid>
      <description>Early next week, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will re-open the new NE 12th Street Bridge to two-way traffic</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Southbound SR 99 in Seattle closed this weekend for construction</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 16 Aug 2011 03:06:06 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/SouthboundSR99ViaductClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/SouthboundSR99ViaductClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers planning to visit downtown Seattle this weekend are encouraged to plan for extra congestion. In addition to a Seahawks home game and Hempfest, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will close all southbound lanes on State Route 99 from the Battery Street Tunnel to the West Seattle Bridge from 11 p.m. Friday, Aug. 19, to 5 a.m. Monday, Aug. 22.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Widening work kicks off Monday on SR 9 near Clearview</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 13 Aug 2011 00:18:55 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/11_SR9WideningProjectKickoff.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/11_SR9WideningProjectKickoff.htm</guid>
      <description>On Monday, Aug. 8, crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) kicked off the third and final stage of a project that will eventually widen a nearly eight-mile section of SR 9 to four lanes.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Bids opened for new SR 520 floating bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 11 Aug 2011 02:05:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/10_SR520BridgeABV.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/10_SR520BridgeABV.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Kiewit-General-Manson, A Joint Venture, submitted the apparent best combination of bid price and technical proposal for replacing the aging and vulnerable State Route 520 floating bridge, according to tallies calculated today by the Washington State Department of Transportation.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 548 to close for 18 days near Blaine</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 10 Aug 2011 04:21:54 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/9_SR548FishCulvert.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/9_SR548FishCulvert.htm</guid>
      <description>BLAINE – WSDOT crews will close all lanes of State Route 548 beginning Aug. 15, for 18 days to install a fish-friendly culvert beneath the highway.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Draft financial plan shows viaduct replacement funding in place</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:23:51 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/9-AWV-draft-fin-plan.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/9-AWV-draft-fin-plan.htm</guid>
      <description>The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) released the draft 2011 Initial Financial Plan for the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Project today, which is under review by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Busy ramp in Federal Way closing for three weeks</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 06 Aug 2011 04:33:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/05_SR18rampclosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/05_SR18rampclosure.htm</guid>
      <description>Busy ramp in Federal Way closing for three weeks</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>More of scenic Mount Baker Highway opens Friday</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 05 Aug 2011 02:51:55 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/04_sr542roadtoheathermeadows.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/04_sr542roadtoheathermeadows.htm</guid>
      <description>Just in time for the gorgeous summer weather that has finally arrived, an additional mile of scenic Mount Baker Highway opens Friday morning, Aug. 5, giving visitors access to the Heather Meadows visitor center. The road has been closed since October because of deep snow.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 project receives federal approval</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 04 Aug 2011 23:40:38 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/04_SR520_FederalApproval.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/04_SR520_FederalApproval.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – After 14 years of design and analysis, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) received federal approval for its plans to improve State Route 520 – including replacing the aging and vulnerable floating bridge – with a safer and more reliable six-lane bridge and highway.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 20 reduced to one lane north of Coupeville</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 03 Aug 2011 02:58:22 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/02_sr20arnoldroadclosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/08/02_sr20arnoldroadclosure.htm</guid>
      <description>State Route 20 on Whidbey Island will be down to one lane for 60 hours this week while crews complete roadwork that will help realign Arnold Road to improve sight distance and ultimately driver safety.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Take the scenic route to avoid 2-hour delays on US 12 this summer</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 30 Aug 2011 22:50:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/Take_scenic_route_avoid_delays_on_US12.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/Take_scenic_route_avoid_delays_on_US12.htm</guid>
      <description>Rock blasting operations have been completed on US 12 near White Pass


The roadway is open in both directions</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Seattle’s floating bridges to close to traffic for Blue Angels, Seafair</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:02:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/03_I90ClosuresForBlueAngels.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/03_I90ClosuresForBlueAngels.htm</guid>
      <description>When the U.S. Navy Blue Angels jets begin zipping over Lake Washington this week, drivers won’t be cruising across the Interstate 90 floating bridge at the same time.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT awards $1.1 million in first round of 2011-2013 Airport Aid grants</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 02 Aug 2011 03:11:22 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/01_airportgrants.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/01_airportgrants.htm</guid>
      <description>ARLINGTON– Twenty-six Washington airports will receive a share of nearly $12 million in federal, state and local funds to maintain airport pavements, improve safety and enhance security. Of that amount the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) contributed $1.1 million through its Airport Aid Program, and used $433,290 in state funds to leverage more than $9 million in federal grants.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Northbound I-5 reopens near Burlington</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 29 Jul 2011 23:09:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/29_I5secnd87HourOver.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/29_I5secnd87HourOver.htm</guid>
      <description>During the 87-hour I-5 lane closure, WSDOT replaced two bridge approaches, repaired several bridge decks and reinforced 2.5 miles of aging concrete panels by tying them together with 6,000 steel dowel bars.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Rail agreement expected to generate jobs and lead to improved Amtrak Cascades service</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 29 Jul 2011 00:32:21 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/28_BNSFAgreement.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/28_BNSFAgreement.htm</guid>
      <description>An agreement signed today by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and BNSF Railway clears the way for work to begin on rail improvements that ultimately will generate hundreds of jobs and improve Amtrak Cascades service between Seattle and Portland.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Environment and transportation go hand-in-hand</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 28 Jul 2011 23:10:44 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/EnvironmentalAward_28.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/EnvironmentalAward_28.htm</guid>
      <description>It’s not always just about building roads and bridges. Often, transportation projects also help rebuild communities and improve the surrounding environment. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) was recently recognized for its successes in sustainable transportation and environmental protection.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Amtrak Cascades ‘Cash Train’ Scratch ticket partnership with Washington’s Lottery a success</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 27 Jul 2011 06:43:19 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/07262011_AmtrakCascadesLotteryresults.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/07262011_AmtrakCascadesLotteryresults.htm</guid>
      <description>Amtrak Cascades Cash Train Scratch ticket promotion with Lottery a success.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Alaskan Way Viaduct closes for construction and Torchlight Run this weekend</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 26 Jul 2011 04:47:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/25_SR99weekendclosures.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/25_SR99weekendclosures.htm</guid>
      <description>A full slate of weekend activities, including closures in both directions of the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct, could mean delays for drivers heading into downtown Seattle. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) urges drivers to map out routes in advance, allow extra time and prepare for more congestion than usual</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-5 reduced to one lane all week from Burlington to Bellingham</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 22 Jul 2011 03:14:14 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/21_2ndI5Closure87Hour.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/21_2ndI5Closure87Hour.htm</guid>
      <description>Twelve miles of Interstate 5 will be reduced to one lane from Burlington to Bellingham for a week starting Monday, July 25. And it could take an hour or more to drive through the construction.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Travelers choosing Amtrak Cascades in record numbers</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 21 Jul 2011 03:24:13 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/07202011AmtrakCascadesRidership.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/07202011AmtrakCascadesRidership.htm</guid>
      <description>Amtrak Cascades second quarter ridership for 2011.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Toll vendor identifies new, minor glitch as it completes toll backlog on Tacoma Narrows Bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 19 Jul 2011 06:24:07 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/18_MinorTNBTollGlitch.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/18_MinorTNBTollGlitch.htm</guid>
      <description>Toll vendor Electronic Transaction Consultants Corp. (ETCC), the Texas firm now handling the Tacoma Narrows Bridge tolling, has nearly caught up on a backlog of toll transactions but encountered a new problem involving Good To Go! customers who manually replenish their accounts and often carry low balances. Some accounts in good standing were charged an incorrect rate.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT's innovative management on I-5 wins award</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 19 Jul 2011 04:22:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/18_WSDOTsInnovativeMngtonI5wins.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/18_WSDOTsInnovativeMngtonI5wins.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT’s innovative management on I-5 wins award</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Hitachi Zosen selected to build SR 99 tunnel boring machine</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 19 Jul 2011 00:52:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/18_tbm-contractor.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/18_tbm-contractor.htm</guid>
      <description>Seattle Tunnel Partners, the Washington State Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) design-build contractor for the proposed SR 99 bored tunnel, has selected Hitachi Zosen Corporation to supply the machine that will construct the tunnel. Hitachi Zosen will be responsible for designing, manufacturing, assembling, testing and commissioning the machine as well as training Seattle Tunnel Partners’ personnel.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT seeks comments on Disadvantaged Business Enterprise contracting goals</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 16 Jul 2011 04:37:42 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/15_DBEgoalsAug2011.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/15_DBEgoalsAug2011.htm</guid>
      <description>Contractors, trade and labor organizations, small and disadvantaged businesses, and others who are interested in doing business with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) are invited to comment on the agency’s proposed interim Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goals.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Dirt from SR 520 pontoon project benefits Hoquiam</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 16 Jul 2011 04:15:09 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/SR520Dirt2Hoquiam.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/SR520Dirt2Hoquiam.htm</guid>
      <description>ABERDEEN – The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and Kiewit-General (K-G) have the dirt on the city of Hoquiam. And Hoquiam couldn’t be happier about it.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Washington selects AeroVironment to light up nation’s first electric highway</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 13 Jul 2011 22:04:24 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/13_ElectricHighways.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/13_ElectricHighways.htm</guid>
      <description>The Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) announces that within six months, drivers will have the ability to charge their electric cars (like the Nissan LEAF and Chevrolet Volt) at charge stations along Washington’s “electric highways” (I-5 and US 2).  Now it’s easy to plug in your electric car while you’re on the go in Washington!</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New roundabout in the works on Mount Baker Highway</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 13 Jul 2011 01:23:47 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/12_sr542roundabout.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/12_sr542roundabout.htm</guid>
      <description>Construction began this week on a new roundabout that will soon make it easier and safer to turn on and off State Route 542, Mount Baker Highway, at the busy Smith Road intersection near Deming.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 reopened after weekend of inspections, construction</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 11 Jul 2011 19:06:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/11_SR520_Reopened.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/11_SR520_Reopened.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Crews reopened State Route 520 this morning after successfully completing a busy weekend of inspections and repairs on the floating bridge in preparation for the next storm season.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>First pour complete in SR 520 pontoon casting basin</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 09 Jul 2011 04:21:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/08_first_pour_520_pontoons.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/08_first_pour_520_pontoons.htm</guid>
      <description>First pour complete in SR 520 pontoon casting basin</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Ten years in the making: final environmental impact statement completed for Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 08 Jul 2011 04:09:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/7_AWVfeis.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/7_AWVfeis.htm</guid>
      <description>The culmination of 10 years of technical analysis and public, agency and tribal review came to fruition today when the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and city of Seattle released the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement project’s final environmental impact statement (EIS).</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Possible travel delays July 9 and 10 for STP bike ride</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 06 Jul 2011 02:51:47 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/05_SeattletoPortland_2011ride.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/05_SeattletoPortland_2011ride.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers should leave themselves extra time July 9 and 10 as 10,000 cyclists use Washington’s state and local roads for the 2011 Group Health Seattle to Portland Bicycle Classic (STP).</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Plan ahead for construction, congestion this weekend in the Puget Sound area</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 06 Jul 2011 02:07:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/05_SR520JulyWeekendClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/07/05_SR520JulyWeekendClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Expect region-wide congestion this weekend as workers close State Route 520 between Montlake Boulevard in Seattle and Interstate 405 in Bellevue. Crews plan to install a fish-passable culvert beneath all lanes of the highway and conduct annual maintenance of the floating bridge. Also, the city of Seattle will close the Interstate 5 ramps to and from Mercer Street.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT fleet named one of the best in North America</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 01 Jul 2011 02:49:21 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/30_WSDOTtop100fleet.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/30_WSDOTtop100fleet.htm</guid>
      <description>The Washington State Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) work to make its fleet of large equipment, trucks and other work vehicles more efficient and sustainable is paying it off. It’s one of North America’s top 100 public fleets, according to Government Fleet magazine.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Snow 50 feet deep still buries road to Artist Point</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 01 Jul 2011 02:12:40 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/30_artistpointclosed.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/30_artistpointclosed.htm</guid>
      <description>Snow 50 feet deep still buries the road (State Route 542) to Artist Point at Mount Baker and will keep the upper portion of the road closed all summer.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Round one complete: I-5 opens on time near Burlington</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 25 Jun 2011 00:13:16 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/i5_24i-5opensontime.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/i5_24i-5opensontime.htm</guid>
      <description>Just in time for the weekend and right on schedule, all lanes of northbound Interstate 5 reopened this morning at 10 a.m. after a week of work and closures that restricted the highway to one lane between Burlington and Bellingham.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-90 signs answer the question: 'Just how much longer until we get there?'</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jun 2011 22:31:34 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/6_23_I90traveltimesigns.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/6_23_I90traveltimesigns.htm</guid>
      <description>Are we there yet? The days of wondering how long it’s going to take to reach Snoqualmie Pass are now over. Today, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) officially unveiled three electronic signs on Interstate 90 for real-time travel time between North Bend and Ellensburg.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Wetland and aquatic improvements project under way in Grays Harbor</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jun 2011 04:55:28 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/22_SR520_GrassCreekProjectKickoff.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/22_SR520_GrassCreekProjectKickoff.htm</guid>
      <description>HOQUIAM – Local leaders and environmental representatives joined the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to kick off the Grass Creek Mitigation Project, an effort to restore wetlands and improve shoreline habitat.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 9 closed all weekend for bridge repairs in Deming</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 21 Jun 2011 23:49:50 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/21_sr9closedallweekend.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/21_sr9closedallweekend.htm</guid>
      <description>At 56 years old, the Smith Creek overflow bridge along State Route 9 in Deming could use a few repairs to keep it smooth for drivers. The highway will close the weekend of June 24 while crews do the work.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 reopened after weekend of construction</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 20 Jun 2011 19:05:02 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/20_SR520Reopened.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/20_SR520Reopened.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Crews reopened State Route 520 this morning after successfully completing a busy weekend of major construction projects. Another weekend closure of the highway is set for early July as part of a three-year project to widen the highway for better safety and travel reliability.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Attention dads and grads: Plan ahead for I-5 lane closures in Lakewood this weekend</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 17 Jun 2011 03:08:21 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/16_5_2ndCloverClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/16_5_2ndCloverClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>Southbound I-5 work in Lakewood this weekend could cause delays for Father's Day and graduation celebrations.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-5 near Burlington reduced to one lane</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 17 Jun 2011 01:25:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/16_Burli-5DayClosures.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/16_Burli-5DayClosures.htm</guid>
      <description>Northbound Interstate 5 will be down to one lane for 87 hours straight beginning June 20 while crews complete complex road and bridge repairs north of Burlington. Drivers should expect lengthy delays during the afternoon commute and should consider alternate routes or alternate commute times.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT will not appeal referendum on SR 99 bored tunnel agreements</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 16 Jun 2011 22:59:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/16-noappeal.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/16-noappeal.htm</guid>
      <description>The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will not appeal King County Superior Court Judge Laura Middaugh’s decision to refer one section of a Seattle City Council ordinance to voters on the August ballot. The ordinance approved three technical agreements between WSDOT and the city of Seattle for the proposed State Route 99 bored tunnel project.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Girder setting marks major milestone for SR 529 Ebey Slough Bridge project</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jun 2011 03:40:12 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/14_SR529EbeySloughGirders.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/14_SR529EbeySloughGirders.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews working to replace the aging State Route 529 bridge over the Ebey Slough will reach a major milestone this month when they finish setting the girders that will form the backbone of the new wider, taller bridge.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>More lanes coming to busy I-5 interchange in Federal Way</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jun 2011 21:02:13 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/14_320thOffRamp.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/14_320thOffRamp.htm</guid>
      <description>More lanes coming to busy I-5 interchange in Federal Way</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Major regional congestion expected Father’s Day weekend</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jun 2011 01:31:35 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/13_SR520WeekendClosureJune17_20.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/13_SR520WeekendClosureJune17_20.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Drivers can expect region-wide congestion Father’s Day weekend as construction completely closes the State Route 520 floating bridge and highway and the Interstate 5 ramps to and from Mercer Street. “Whether you’re headed to the Mariners’ games, the Fremont Solstice Parade and Fair or celebrating Father’s Day, we’re asking drivers to plan ahead for major traffic delays on all Puget Sound highways,” said Brian Dobbins, WSDOT construction engineer for the SR 520 Eastside Transit and HOV</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Students win top prize in statewide I-90 transportation art and essay contest</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 13 Jun 2011 23:37:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/BridgingFuturesWinners.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/BridgingFuturesWinners.htm</guid>
      <description>Two Washington state students won top honors for their participation in the seventh annual Interstate 90 Bridging Futures Art and Essay Contest.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Smooth sailing coming soon to I-5 in Marysville</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 13 Jun 2011 22:12:28 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/13_I5PavingITS.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/13_I5PavingITS.htm</guid>
      <description>Lumpy, bumpy and rutted pavement on Interstate 5 through Marysville will soon be just a distant memory for drivers when crews begin construction Monday to repave a four-mile stretch of the southbound lanes.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-5 speed limit drops near Burlington as work picks up</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 02:24:15 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/10_I5BurlSpeedDrops.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/10_I5BurlSpeedDrops.htm</guid>
      <description>The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will temporarily reduce the speed limit from 70 mph to 60 mph between Burlington and Bellingham starting Tuesday, June 14.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Repaving work to give SR 515 in Kent a fresh look</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 01:23:41 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/10_SR515PavingProject.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/10_SR515PavingProject.htm</guid>
      <description>KENT – A busy stretch of State Route 515 in Kent will get a facelift this summer when crews repave the road and improve sidewalk ramps.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Celebrating 10 years of transparency in transportation</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jun 2011 04:18:27 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/GrayNotebook10thAnniversary.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/GrayNotebook10thAnniversary.htm</guid>
      <description>Celebrating 10 years of transparency in transportation 
Gray Notebook highlights safety, freight, and winter weather operations</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Final EIS: SR 520 project builds stronger, safer floating bridge, improves cross-lake travel</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jun 2011 02:04:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/09_SR520_FEIS_Released.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/09_SR520_FEIS_Released.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Building a safer and more reliable six-lane State Route 520 floating bridge and highway will improve travel times and give people better options for crossing Lake Washington, according to analysis released today by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT).</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New Smarter Highways signs light up on I-90</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jun 2011 03:32:23 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/7_i90smarterhighwaysactivation.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/7_i90smarterhighwaysactivation.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT activates Smarter Highways on I-90</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Alaskan Way Viaduct closed this weekend for construction</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jun 2011 23:25:16 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/060711_99.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/060711_99.htm</guid>
      <description>The Alaskan Way Viaduct will close this weekend between the West Seattle Bridge and the Battery Street Tunnel. Drivers heading to Saturday’s Sounders FC match at Qwest Field should plan for delays and use alternate routes.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Full closures of westbound US 2 trestle in Everett start this week</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jun 2011 04:08:17 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/6_US2TrestleClosures.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/6_US2TrestleClosures.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers should make plans to avoid delays as crews begin nighttime construction closures of the westbound US 2 trestle, an aging span in need of repairs connecting Lake Stevens and Everett.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Southern mile of Alaskan Way Viaduct to be demolished six months early</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 04 Jun 2011 03:17:37 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/060311_AWV.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/060311_AWV.htm</guid>
      <description>A section of the seismically-vulnerable Alaskan Way Viaduct is now scheduled for demolition this October, six months ahead of schedule. The southern mile of the viaduct is coming down early after the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and its contractor, Skanska USA Civil, found ways to streamline the project schedule and save money.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Work to lengthen I-5 ramp in Bellingham starts next week</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 04 Jun 2011 02:24:04 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/03_i5rampworkstarts.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/03_i5rampworkstarts.htm</guid>
      <description>A longer Samish Way on-ramp soon will make it easier to merge onto northbound I-5 in Bellingham.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT investigating glitches in Tacoma Narrows Bridge toll-collection operations</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jun 2011 04:10:37 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/2_GlitchesTNBTollCollection.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/06/2_GlitchesTNBTollCollection.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT investigating glitches in Tacoma Narrows Bridge toll-collection operations</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT starts seismic work on Aurora Bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jun 2011 05:02:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/01_AuroraBridgeSeismic.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/01_AuroraBridgeSeismic.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT starts seismic work on Aurora Bridge</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Long-term ramp closure in Federal Way begins next week</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 27 May 2011 00:45:29 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/26_SR18RampClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/26_SR18RampClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>A summer of significant freeway ramp closures begins in Federal Way the day after the Memorial Day holiday as crews work to improve safety and ease congestion at a key Interstate 5 interchange.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Long-awaited widening work starts on SR 522 in Monroe this summer</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 26 May 2011 23:34:34 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/26_SR522ContractAward.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/26_SR522ContractAward.htm</guid>
      <description>Commuters on SR 522 in Monroe can look forward to fewer delays and faster, safer trips. A much-anticipated project to widen four miles of the highway between the Snohomish River and US 2 will kick off in a little more than a month.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Safety improvements coming to SR 20 at Arnold Road on Whidbey Island</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 26 May 2011 00:21:25 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/25_SR20ArnoldRD.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/25_SR20ArnoldRD.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews will make safety improvements this summer on SR 20 south of Oak Harbor. WSDOT hired Interwest Construction to make the improvements. Construction is expected to begin in June and should finish by fall.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Washington still 'most bicycle-friendly state'</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 25 May 2011 05:40:02 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/05_24WABikeFriendlyState.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/05_24WABikeFriendlyState.htm</guid>
      <description>Washington still 'most bicycle-friendly state'</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>North Cascades Highway reopens at noon Wednesday</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 May 2011 06:29:27 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/23SR20SpringReopening.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/23SR20SpringReopening.htm</guid>
      <description>SR 20, The North Cascades Highway will open to traffic at noon on Wednesday, May 25</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Work to lengthen I-5 ramp starts next week in Bellingham</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 20 May 2011 04:22:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/19_i5lakewayrampwork.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/19_i5lakewayrampwork.htm</guid>
      <description>A longer Lakeway Drive on-ramp soon will make it easier for drivers to merge onto southbound I-5 in Bellingham.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT seeks input for overall Disadvantaged Business Enterprise goal setting</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 20 May 2011 03:48:27 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/DBEGoalSetMeeting.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/DBEGoalSetMeeting.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT seeks input for overall Disadvantaged Business Enterprise goal setting</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Only chance of Memorial Day weekend sun but traffic guaranteed</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 20 May 2011 03:04:03 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/19_memorialday2011.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/19_memorialday2011.htm</guid>
      <description>While many people still can’t decide if they need sandals or snow boots for Memorial Day weekend, it’s always the right decision to check your route before you go.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 weekend closure canceled for June 3-6</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 18 May 2011 01:24:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/17_SR520_EastsideClosureCancel.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/17_SR520_EastsideClosureCancel.htm</guid>
      <description>BELLEVUE – The complete construction closure of State Route 520 is canceled the weekend of June 3-6 to allow the contractor more time to design and build a concrete stream culvert that had been scheduled for installation.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Seattle’s Alaskan Way Viaduct reopens ahead of schedule</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 16 May 2011 01:33:13 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/_15_viaductreopens.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/_15_viaductreopens.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews reopened the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct ahead of schedule Sunday after completing work to narrow the highway for construction between the West Seattle Bridge and Seattle’s stadiums.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>North Cascades Highway, Cayuse Pass may open by Memorial Day weekend; no estimate for Chinook Pass opening</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 14 May 2011 05:08:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/Crews_battle_snow_avalanches_in_mountains.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/Crews_battle_snow_avalanches_in_mountains.htm</guid>
      <description>North Cascades Highway, Cayuse Pass may open by Memorial Day weekend; no estimate for Chinook Pass opening</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews battle late-spring snowfall and avalanche danger in mountain passes</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 14 May 2011 03:51:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/13_CascadePasses.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/13_CascadePasses.htm</guid>
      <description>CASCADE MOUNTAINS – The calendar might say spring, but Old Man Winter hasn’t easily released his icy grip on three mountain passes cutting through the Cascades. Record amounts of snow are hampering efforts to clear and reopen the passes.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-90 Snoqualmie Pass project wins conservation award from Cascade Land Conservancy</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 13 May 2011 03:13:15 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/12_I90conservationaward.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/12_I90conservationaward.htm</guid>
      <description>The Cascade Land Conservancy presented its Innovative Conservation Project award to the Washington State Department of Transportation’s I-90 Snoqualmie Pass East Project (I-90 project) during its annual Conservation Awards Breakfast today in Seattle.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Southbound I-5 HOV lane in Federal Way closing for 10 days</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 13 May 2011 00:49:39 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/12_i5HOVclosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/12_i5HOVclosure.htm</guid>
      <description>Southbound I-5 HOV lane in Federal Way closing for 10 days</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-5 travelers get a brighter greeting in Vancouver this weekend</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 12 May 2011 01:12:17 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/11_WelcomeToWashingtonSignPlanting.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/11_WelcomeToWashingtonSignPlanting.htm</guid>
      <description>VANCOUVER – Even if the weather isn’t sunny this weekend, Interstate 5 drivers headed north from Oregon will still get a bright greeting thanks to local volunteers planting the “Welcome to Washington” sign near Fourth Plain Boulevard.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Washington commended for showing taxpayers where their transportation dollars go</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 12 May 2011 00:38:22 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/11_PerformanceMeasures.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/11_PerformanceMeasures.htm</guid>
      <description>Washington commended for showing taxpayers where their transportation dollars go</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Rock Blasting is back on I-90 east of Snoqualmie Pass</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 11 May 2011 21:43:31 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/11_I90rockblastingisback.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/11_I90rockblastingisback.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews will get the green light to resume rock blasting operations this week after a snowy spring on Interstate 90.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Washington state wins additional high-speed-rail funding rejected by Florida</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 May 2011 02:13:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/06_15mFromFLtoWA.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/06_15mFromFLtoWA.htm</guid>
      <description>Washington state will receive $15 million in additional federal high-speed-rail funding for improvements resulting in more frequent and reliable Amtrak Cascades passenger rail service between Portland and Vancouver, B.C.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Reminder: Just two lanes on SR 99 in each direction through SODO starting May 16</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 09 May 2011 21:54:14 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/09_viaductclosurereminder.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/09_viaductclosurereminder.htm</guid>
      <description>Commuters have just one week to get ready for long-term lane reductions on the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct corridor through Seattle’s SODO neighborhood – but drivers will have options for avoiding construction congestion thanks to a special collaboration with Metro Transit and the city of Seattle.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Major I-5 rehab in Skagit County begins mid-May</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 07 May 2011 00:56:39 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/6_I5Burl2BellinghamPaver.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/6_I5Burl2BellinghamPaver.htm</guid>
      <description>Beginning in May 2011,crews will repair and pave 12 miles of northbound I-5 from north of the SR 11 Chuckanut Drive interchange in Burlington to south of Lake Samish near Bellingham.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Flexible schedule, incentives offered for SR 520 floating bridge construction</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 07 May 2011 00:50:07 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/06_SR520_FloatingBridgeIncentivesSchedule.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/06_SR520_FloatingBridgeIncentivesSchedule.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – While the goal for replacing the aging State Route 520 floating bridge remains December 2014, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is providing more flexibility to open the new bridge to traffic by July 2015 – a move that could reduce risk and make for better bids on the project.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Busy weekend: drivers should expect delays in Seattle and east of Snoqualmie Pass</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 06 May 2011 23:52:45 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/06_BusyTravelWeekend.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/06_BusyTravelWeekend.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers whose Mother’s Day plans include a trip to grandma’s house should plan for a full weekend of closures and sporting events in the Puget Sound area – as well delays crossing Snoqualmie Pass. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) urges drivers to map out routes in advance, allow extra time and prepare for more congestion than usual.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Overheight load hits I-90 at SR 18</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 04 May 2011 07:10:49 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/03_I90SR18GirdersDamaged.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/03_I90SR18GirdersDamaged.htm</guid>
      <description>Bridge crews are assessing damage to Interstate 90 after a tow truck removing a vehicle from an earlier collision on State Route 18 hit and damaged the girders that support the eastbound lanes of I-90</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Alaskan Way Viaduct: Just two lanes in each direction in SODO starting May 16</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 May 2011 21:41:02 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/_1_SR99lanereduction.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/05/_1_SR99lanereduction.htm</guid>
      <description>In two weeks, the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct corridor will be reduced from three to two lanes in both directions between the West Seattle Bridge and Seattle’s sports stadiums.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Digging in: Excavation starts on SR 520 pontoon casting basin</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 03 May 2011 01:15:37 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/SR520PCPCastingBasin.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/SR520PCPCastingBasin.htm</guid>
      <description>ABERDEEN – Today crews started excavating more than a quarter-million cubic yards of dirt for a casting basin here – a crucial step for building concrete pontoons to replace the aging and vulnerable State Route 520 floating bridge in the Seattle area.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New SR 520 toll system put to the test</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 30 Apr 2011 00:10:23 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/29NewSR520TollSystemPutToTest.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/29NewSR520TollSystemPutToTest.htm</guid>
      <description>Testing starts today on the all-electronic SR 520 toll system. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will spend at least the next six weeks confirming that the system can process tens of thousands of daily transactions and track revenue that will provide $1 billion in funding to replace the State Route 520 bridge.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Rumble strips coming to SR 548 near Ferndale</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 28 Apr 2011 01:14:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/27_Rumble548.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/27_Rumble548.htm</guid>
      <description>Starting Monday May 2, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will install five miles of rumble strips near Ferndale on State Route 548 between Vista Drive and Kickerville Road to help keep drivers on the road.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Demolition launches SR 520 construction in Bellevue</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 26 Apr 2011 04:47:46 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/25_SR520_EastsideDemolition.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/25_SR520_EastsideDemolition.htm</guid>
      <description>BELLEVUE – Demolition crews tore down a half-century-old toll administration building on State Route 520 today, removing the last relic of cash toll collections on this highway and launching three years of major construction on the Eastside.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Roundabouts planned for Badger Road in Lynden</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 26 Apr 2011 04:36:05 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/25_sr546badgerroundabouts.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/25_sr546badgerroundabouts.htm</guid>
      <description>While they’re still not the norm, roundabouts are increasing in number across the state because they make travel safer. Two more roundabouts are planned for busy intersections along Badger Road (State Route 546) in Lynden.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Drivers should prepare for delays over I-90 near Easton for the next five weeks</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 23 Apr 2011 04:08:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/22_2011lakeeastondelays.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/22_2011lakeeastondelays.htm</guid>
      <description>For the next five weeks drivers traveling over I-90 between Easton and Cle Elum will experience delays associated with traffic restrictions.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Reminder: Studded tire deadline April 25</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 23 Apr 2011 00:54:20 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/22_studdedtiresoffApril25.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/22_studdedtiresoffApril25.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers should remove studded tires by the end of the day Monday, April 25, or risk a fine from law enforcement.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Rumble strips coming to SR 516 in Kent</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 23 Apr 2011 00:46:33 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/22_SR516RumblestripsInstallation.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/22_SR516RumblestripsInstallation.htm</guid>
      <description>KENT – Have you ever seen a car or truck drift off the highway then suddenly and dangerously correct itself? It’s a serious hazard that soon should become less common on State Route 516.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT kicks off 2011 highway construction season</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 20 Apr 2011 01:06:02 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/19_2011ConstructionKickoff.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/19_2011ConstructionKickoff.htm</guid>
      <description>The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) officially kicked off the 2011 construction season in Lynnwood today at the site of the $33 million Interstate 5 braided-ramp project.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Brighter, safer lanes all the rage this striping season</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 18 Apr 2011 23:15:27 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/18_2011StripingSeasonBegins.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/18_2011StripingSeasonBegins.htm</guid>
      <description>Did the wet winter fade the stripes along your favorite commute? It might be time for a makeover to brighten those yellows and whites and make your trips safer.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 20 paving in downtown Oak Harbor starts in June</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 16 Apr 2011 04:23:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/15_sr20pavingprojectinjune.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/15_sr20pavingprojectinjune.htm</guid>
      <description>The busiest stretch of State Route 20 on Whidbey Island will get a much needed makeover this summer when crews repave through downtown Oak Harbor.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New travel time signs on the Eastside direct drivers to road less traveled</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 14 Apr 2011 03:02:44 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/13_2neweastsidetraveltimesigns.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/13_2neweastsidetraveltimesigns.htm</guid>
      <description>Two new travel time signs will turn on Thursday afternoon, April 14 on westbound SR 520 in Bellevue and westbound SR 522 in Woodinville.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 tolling start date dependent on successful testing of equipment and systems</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 12 Apr 2011 22:26:17 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/12_520TollingDateRequirements.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/12_520TollingDateRequirements.htm</guid>
      <description>At least six weeks of rigorous testing of equipment and systems for tolling of the SR 520 bridge are planned to begin next week, and if successful, a toll start date will be set, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) said today.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>It's official: Ohio and Wisconsin high-speed-rail funding coming to Washington</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 08 Apr 2011 23:50:12 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/8_WASecuresOHWIRailFunding.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/8_WASecuresOHWIRailFunding.htm</guid>
      <description>Federal and state officials signed documents today that guarantee Washington state will get $145 million in high-speed-rail funding originally intended for Ohio and Wisconsin.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Learn about SR 9 Pilchuck Bridge replacement project</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 06 Apr 2011 23:01:14 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/6_SR9Pilchuckopenhouse.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/6_SR9Pilchuckopenhouse.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT has completed the preliminary design for the new State Route 9 Pilchuck Creek bridge and invites local drivers and residents to an open house Wednesday, April 13, 2011.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Milestones reached during I-405 weekend closure</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 05 Apr 2011 06:11:55 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/NE12BridgeRemovalPerformance.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/NE12BridgeRemovalPerformance.htm</guid>
      <description>During a 49-hour complete closure of Interstate 405 in Bellevue over the weekend, the public responded to help minimize traffic congestion and crews completed a long list of work.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Studded tire deadline extended another week</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 05 Apr 2011 05:00:13 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/StudTireDeadlineApril14.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/StudTireDeadlineApril14.htm</guid>
      <description>Studded tire deadline extended another week</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Washington state applies for Florida's high-speed-rail funding</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 05 Apr 2011 04:05:57 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/04_HSRFLApplication.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/04_HSRFLApplication.htm</guid>
      <description>Washington state applied today for approximately $120 million in federal high-speed-rail stimulus money, part of $2.4 billion returned by Florida. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will use the money to continue improving and expanding Amtrak Cascades service between Portland, Ore., and Vancouver, B.C.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Southbound I-405 opens early in Bellevue after bridge torn down; northbound opens Monday at 4 a.m.</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 04 Apr 2011 11:30:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/03_I405SBReopensEarly.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/03_I405SBReopensEarly.htm</guid>
      <description>Southbound I-405 in Bellevue opened just after 9 p.m. - several hours ahead of schedule after crews removed the old N.E. 12th St. bridge.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Damaged NE 12th Street bridge will open early at 6 p.m., but carry limited traffic</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 04 Apr 2011 04:23:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/03_12thStreetBridgeReopensMonday.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/03_12thStreetBridgeReopensMonday.htm</guid>
      <description>Engineers have inspected the damage to the new NE 12th Street bridge in Bellevue and determined it can be opened to traffic on Sunday, April 3 at 6 p.m. but traffic will be limited to one westbound lane only.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>It’s crunch time: I-405 in Bellevue closes tonight at 11 p.m.</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 02 Apr 2011 03:44:14 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/405_12thBridgeRemoval.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/405_12thBridgeRemoval.htm</guid>
      <description>Interstate 405 will close tonight at 11 p.m. for 53 hours between N.E. Eighth Street and State Route SR 520 in Bellevue until 4 a.m., Monday, April 4.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-5 ramp improvements resume in Bellingham</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 01 Apr 2011 23:01:52 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/01_i5rampworkresumes.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/04/01_i5rampworkresumes.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers should plan for nightly lane and ramp closures next week in downtown Bellingham as crews resume Interstate 5 ramp improvements.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Celebrate Work Zone Awareness week by going orange for work zone safety</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:07:23 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/31_workzonesafety2011.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/31_workzonesafety2011.htm</guid>
      <description>In recognition of the men and women who work mere feet from traffic, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) along with state and national groups will go orange for work zone safety April 4 through 9 to celebrate National Work Zone Awareness Week.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New report highlights Washington’s Recovery Act transportation investments</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 31 Mar 2011 22:40:18 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/WSDOTReportsonRecoveryActInvestment.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/WSDOTReportsonRecoveryActInvestment.htm</guid>
      <description>New report highlights Washington’s Recovery Act transportation investments</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>No Fooling: I-405 in Bellevue to close this Friday, April 1 at 11 p.m.</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 31 Mar 2011 01:24:05 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/30_I405inBelleuveToCloseThisWeekend.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/30_I405inBelleuveToCloseThisWeekend.htm</guid>
      <description>Busy I-405 between N.E. Eight Street and SR 520 in Bellevue will close for 53 hours this weekend while crews remove the old N.E. 12th Street Bridge. The full closure will begin at 11 p.m., Friday, April 1 and end by 4 a.m., Monday, April 4. To help prevent region-wide gridlock, drivers should delay discretionary trips, take alternate routes, and plan for delays throughout the Puget Sound area.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Clearing the North Cascades Highway starts April 11</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 31 Mar 2011 01:02:06 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/30SR20ReopeningStarts411.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/30SR20ReopeningStarts411.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT plans to begin clearing State Route 20, The North Cascades Highway, on Monday, April 11.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT’s bridge program scores high nationally</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 31 Mar 2011 00:03:23 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/30_2010bridgereport.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/30_2010bridgereport.htm</guid>
      <description>Washington state’s bridge maintenance and preservation program ranked high in a report released today by Transportation for America, a broad coalition of organizations promoting national transportation reform.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Construction resumes on I-90 east of Snoqualmie Pass</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 29 Mar 2011 04:05:33 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/28_I90constructionsnoqulmiepasseast.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/28_I90constructionsnoqulmiepasseast.htm</guid>
      <description>Major highway improvements on Interstate 90 east of Snoqualmie pass are kicking off again now that winter weather has calmed down.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Studded tire deadline extended one week</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 26 Mar 2011 03:02:35 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/25_studded_tires_extend.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/25_studded_tires_extend.htm</guid>
      <description>The studded tire deadline has been extended one week. Drivers must now remove their studded tires by the end of the day Thursday, April 7.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>No new cracks or damage found during inspection of SR 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 26 Mar 2011 02:42:55 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/25_awvinspectionresults.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/25_awvinspectionresults.htm</guid>
      <description>New survey data reveals no new settlement or structural damage on the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Plan ahead for busy weekend of construction closures around Puget Sound</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 25 Mar 2011 02:24:12 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/24_BusyWeekend.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/24_BusyWeekend.htm</guid>
      <description>SHORELINE – A slew of closures and construction work are planned throughout the Puget Sound region this weekend.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT names new public transportation director</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 23 Mar 2011 05:55:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/New_PT_Director.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/New_PT_Director.htm</guid>
      <description>A veteran of bringing transportation choices to Washington, Brian Lagerberg was named director of the Public Transportation Division at WSDOT.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>N.E. 12th Street Bridge opens in Bellevue</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 23 Mar 2011 01:10:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/NewNE12thStreetBridgeOpens.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/NewNE12thStreetBridgeOpens.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews opened the first half of the new N.E. 12th Street Bridge to traffic early this morning, marking a construction milestone that will allow them to tear down the old bridge the first weekend in April.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT seeks comments on DBE contracting goals</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 22 Mar 2011 05:08:22 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/DBEcontractingGoals.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/DBEcontractingGoals.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT seeks comments on DBE contracting goals</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews to install fish-friendly culvert on SR 548 near Blaine</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 22 Mar 2011 02:55:01 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/21_sr548installnewculvert.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/21_sr548installnewculvert.htm</guid>
      <description>When Terrell Creek is flowing swiftly, the undersized culvert beneath State Route 548 pumps water like a fire hose. And when the creek is calm, the culvert sits several feet out of the water. Either way, it blocks fish trying to reach spawning grounds.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Weekend-long I-5 lane closures coming to Lakewood</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Mar 2011 23:04:53 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/18_5_wkendclosurescoming.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/18_5_wkendclosurescoming.htm</guid>
      <description>Mid-April WSDOT crews begin preservation work on the I-5 Clover Creek Bridge in Lakewood.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Open house to kick off SR 520 Eastside construction</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Mar 2011 03:21:11 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/17_SR520EastsideConstructionOpenHouse.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/17_SR520EastsideConstructionOpenHouse.htm</guid>
      <description>BELLEVUE – Construction starts next month on major State Route 520 highway improvements on the Eastside, and an open house is planned March 23 so commuters and neighbors can learn what to expect during the work.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Semiannual inspection closes SR 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct this weekend</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 Mar 2011 22:44:27 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/15_viaductinspection.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/15_viaductinspection.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews will close the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct this weekend for its semiannual inspection and to test a new system that automatically closes the viaduct when sensors detect an earthquake.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Northbound SR 99 on-ramp at stadiums opens in time for Sounders, Mariners season home openers</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 12 Mar 2011 04:20:02 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/11_Northbound-99-ramp.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/11_Northbound-99-ramp.htm</guid>
      <description>Construction crews will open the northbound SR 99 on-ramp from S. Royal Brougham Way at 7 tonight, just days before the Sounders FC regular season home opener.
Crews demolished the SR 99 on-ramp from First Avenue S. on Feb. 18. They spent three weeks rebuilding the ramp to connect it to S. Royal Brougham Way between First Avenue S. and Alaskan Way S.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 9 improvements delayed until next year</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 12 Mar 2011 04:19:28 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/11_sr9improvementsdelayed.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/11_sr9improvementsdelayed.htm</guid>
      <description>A roundabout scheduled for construction this summer east of Arlington at the intersection of State Route 9 and State Route 531 has been delayed until next year.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews inspect Deception Pass bridges</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 10 Mar 2011 00:41:06 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/09_sr20deceptionpassinspections.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/09_sr20deceptionpassinspections.htm</guid>
      <description>Though the Deception Pass bridges boast some of the most majestic views in the state, crews won’t be admiring the views next week when they’re hanging off the sides of the 180-foot-tall bridges.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 9 safety improvements resume near Lake Stevens</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 Mar 2011 03:16:52 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/08_sr9safetyworkresumes.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/08_sr9safetyworkresumes.htm</guid>
      <description>Commuters and residents near Lake Stevens will see crews back at work making SR 9 safer and reducing congestion between Lundeen Parkway and SR 92.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Building roundabouts on Mount Baker Highway this year</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 Mar 2011 02:15:25 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/08_sr542roundaboutsbuiltthisyear.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/08_sr542roundaboutsbuiltthisyear.htm</guid>
      <description>Smoother traffic along Mount Baker Highway is just around the bend. Two new roundabouts will ease the flow at intersections near Deming.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>INRIX report: WSDOT’s Moving Washington programs keeping traffic moving</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 Mar 2011 01:01:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/08_INRIX_report_WSDOT_traffic.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/08_INRIX_report_WSDOT_traffic.htm</guid>
      <description>The 2010 National Traffic Scorecard, an annual congestion report published today by INRIX Corporation, shows Seattle as the country’s only major urban area that did not see congestion get worse last year.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Amtrak Cascades hoping to cash in with new lottery ticket partnership</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 08 Mar 2011 21:37:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/030811_AmtrakCascadesLottery.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/030811_AmtrakCascadesLottery.htm</guid>
      <description>Amtrak Cascades partners with Washington's Lottery to launch new Cash Train Scratch ticket.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Project to repair US 2 trestle will begin this spring</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 05 Mar 2011 01:08:51 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/4_US2TrestleRepairs.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/4_US2TrestleRepairs.htm</guid>
      <description>This spring, crews will begin a project to repair and reinforce more than 844 of the girders that support the westbound lanes.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT and customer service vendor working to improve Good To Go! customer experience</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 04 Mar 2011 04:50:52 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/3_gtgCustomerServiceImprovements.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/3_gtgCustomerServiceImprovements.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT is working to improve the Good To Go! customer experience.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT announces proposal to preserve historic Seattle building in Pioneer Square</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 03 Mar 2011 06:46:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/2-pioneersquare.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/03/2-pioneersquare.htm</guid>
      <description>Historic preservation groups were notified today about a proposal to preserve the 619 Western Building in Pioneer Square during construction of the proposed SR 99 bored tunnel. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) developed the proposal to stabilize and shore the building sufficiently to minimize potential damage during construction. The Western Building is in poor structural condition and sits on unconsolidated fill that without protective measures could settle during tunne</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Pile driving for SR 520 pontoon project starts this week</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 Mar 2011 06:23:28 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/SR+520PCP+Pile+driving.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/SR+520PCP+Pile+driving.htm</guid>
      <description>The sounds of progress start echoing through the State Route 520 Pontoon Construction project site this week as crews begin to drive hundreds of support pilings to form the foundation of a pontoon casting facility.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Agreements secure $590 million in federal passenger rail funding for Washington state</title>
      <pubDate>Sun, 27 Feb 2011 05:24:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/26_HighSpeedRailAgreements.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/26_HighSpeedRailAgreements.htm</guid>
      <description>Agreements have been signed that guarantee Washington state will get $590 million in federal stimulus money to improve the Amtrak Cascades rail corridor from Portland to Seattle, Gov. Chris Gregoire said today.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews race to build new connection to SR 99 near Seattle’s stadiums</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 22 Feb 2011 21:06:39 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/22_firstaveopen.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/22_firstaveopen.htm</guid>
      <description>With a piece of the Alaskan Way Viaduct now gone forever, the race is on to build a new on-ramp to northbound SR 99 from S. Royal Brougham Way.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Demolition crews make quick work of SR 99 ramp</title>
      <pubDate>Sun, 20 Feb 2011 04:43:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/19_SR99_rampdemolished.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/19_SR99_rampdemolished.htm</guid>
      <description>The first piece of the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct has been demolished in Seattle’s SODO neighborhood, marking a milestone toward replacing the seismically vulnerable structure. Crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) fired up the demolition equipment at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 18, and spent the night crunching and breaking the nearly 60-year-old First Avenue S. northbound on-ramp into bits.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Rain, snow or shine, crews to demolish first piece of Alaskan Way Viaduct on Friday night</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Feb 2011 08:33:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/17_SR99rampdemo.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/17_SR99rampdemo.htm</guid>
      <description>Regardless of the weather, crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will demolish the first piece of the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct starting 7 p.m. Friday. 
Crews will tear down the nearly 60-year-old northbound SR 99 on-ramp from First Avenue S. The work will take all weekend to complete, including Monday, Presidents Day.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Work begins in Aberdeen on SR 520 pontoon project</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Feb 2011 08:33:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/17_SR520PontoonProjectConstructionBegins.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/17_SR520PontoonProjectConstructionBegins.htm</guid>
      <description>ABERDEEN – A revival is under way at the former Aberdeen Log Yard– not in timber, but in concrete pontoons that will support the State Route 520 floating bridge for decades to come.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT updating new Good To Go! website in response to customer feedback</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Feb 2011 03:36:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/17_GoodToGoWebsiteUpgrade.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/17_GoodToGoWebsiteUpgrade.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT updating and improving new Good To Go! website in response to customer feedback.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Washington state to feds: We're ready to put Florida rail money to work</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 17 Feb 2011 03:19:29 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/16_AddlHSRFunds.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/16_AddlHSRFunds.htm</guid>
      <description>Federal high-speed-rail stimulus funds rejected by Florida could be well spent in Washington on the vital Amtrak Cascades corridor stretching from Oregon to British Columbia, Washington Transportation Secretary Paula Hammond said today.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Public invited to I-405 project open house in Kirkland</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 17 Feb 2011 01:10:40 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/405bellevuetolynnwoodopenhouse.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/405bellevuetolynnwoodopenhouse.htm</guid>
      <description>Learn more about the possibility of express toll lanes from Bellevue to Lynnwood at an open house in Kirkland this week.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT completes work on Aurora Avenue bridge safety fence</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 Feb 2011 01:10:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/15_99SafetyFenceComplete.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/15_99SafetyFenceComplete.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews completed major construction on the Aurora Avenue safety fence this week. Contractor Massana Construction began work on the safety fence that runs the length of the Aurora Avenue bridge, known formally as the SR 99 George Washington Memorial Bridge, in fall 2010.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT launches new Good To Go! passes and account sign-ups for SR 520 tolling</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 Feb 2011 00:17:30 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/15_goodtogo520passsales.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/15_goodtogo520passsales.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT launches new Good To Go! passes and account sign-ups for SR 520 tolling</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Demolition of SR 99 on-ramp from First Avenue S. begins this Friday</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 14 Feb 2011 21:50:30 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/14_1stAveDemoWorkBegins.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/14_1stAveDemoWorkBegins.htm</guid>
      <description>One new ramp open, one about to be demolished. This morning, drivers taking the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct to Seattle’s SODO neighborhood began exiting to S. Royal Brougham Way instead of First Avenue S.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 pontoon project breaks ground in Aberdeen</title>
      <pubDate>Sun, 13 Feb 2011 06:34:57 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/12_520PontoonGroundbreaking.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/12_520PontoonGroundbreaking.htm</guid>
      <description>ABERDEEN – A crowd of more than 200 cheered in Grays Harbor today as Gov. Chris Gregoire and other officials celebrated the start of a construction project that will bring jobs to the community and help replace the vulnerable State Route 520 floating bridge.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Amtrak Cascades offers new promotions, amenities</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 12 Feb 2011 03:12:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/021111_AmtrakCascadespromotions.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/021111_AmtrakCascadespromotions.htm</guid>
      <description>OLYMPIA - Thinking about taking your valentine to Vancouver, B.C.? Heading into the spring travel season, Amtrak Cascades is offering ticket promotions, free food vouchers on some routes and upgraded amenities in a push to improve service throughout the Pacific Northwest.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Major Alaskan Way Viaduct ramp changes coming</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 Feb 2011 21:33:24 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/09_AlaskanWayViaductRampChanges.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/09_AlaskanWayViaductRampChanges.htm</guid>
      <description>Two weekends of big changes are in store for drivers heading between the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct and Seattle’s SODO neighborhood as crews relocate a ramp and gear up to demolish another.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Secretary of Transportation Hammond applauds federal transportation initiatives</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 Feb 2011 02:23:22 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/HammondApplaudsFedInitiative.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/HammondApplaudsFedInitiative.htm</guid>
      <description>Secretary of Transportation Hammond applauds federal transportation initiatives</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews move quickly to protect Mount Baker Highway from the Nooksack River</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 08 Feb 2011 02:23:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/04_sr542emergencyrepairs.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/04_sr542emergencyrepairs.htm</guid>
      <description>The Nooksack River is eroding a portion of riverbank along Mount Baker Highway (State Route 542) and threatening the stability of the highway. Crews will start emergency repairs this week to protect the road and keep it open to drivers.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New Good To Go! statewide customer service center to feature enhanced website and pass options</title>
      <pubDate>Sun, 06 Feb 2011 03:18:48 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/5_GTGtransition.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/5_GTGtransition.htm</guid>
      <description>Beginning Tuesday, Feb. 15, customers will notice a new look and feel to the Good To Go! website. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is upgrading the website as part of its transition to a new statewide customer service center for tolls.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT restricts lane – not weight – on SR 167 Puyallup River Bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 04 Feb 2011 01:43:56 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/03_PuyallupRiverBridgelanerestriction.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/03_PuyallupRiverBridgelanerestriction.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT this week took a load off the minds of commercial truckers who rely on the SR 167 Puyallup River Bridge, lifting a previously announced weight limit on the northbound lanes.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT hires Merlino Construction to build interchange improvements in Kirkland</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:38:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/03_NE116thStImprovements.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/02/03_NE116thStImprovements.htm</guid>
      <description>Gary Merlino Construction Company of Seattle has submitted the apparent winning bid of $10.7 million for the Washington State Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) I-405, NE 116th St Interchange and Street Improvement Project. WSDOT selected Merlino over ten firms that qualified to bid for the job.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Wi-Fi service available on all Amtrak Cascades trains</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 Feb 2011 01:28:12 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/013111_AmtrakCascadesWifi.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/013111_AmtrakCascadesWifi.htm</guid>
      <description>Amtrak Cascades free Wi-Fi launched on all trains.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT sends SR 99 bored tunnel project agreements to Seattle City Council for approval</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 29 Jan 2011 07:38:56 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/28-AWV-tunnel-agreements.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/28-AWV-tunnel-agreements.htm</guid>
      <description>The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) transmitted to the Seattle City Council today three agreements that will continue the 10-year partnership to replace the seismically vulnerable Alaskan Way Viaduct. The technical agreements describe how the City of Seattle will review and approve the state’s plans related to the proposed bored tunnel under downtown Seattle.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Groundbreaking: SR 520 pontoon project in Aberdeen</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 29 Jan 2011 07:03:46 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/28_PontoonGroundbreaking.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/28_PontoonGroundbreaking.htm</guid>
      <description>ABERDEEN – Gov. Chris Gregoire and Washington Transportation Secretary Paula Hammond will visit Grays Harbor in two weeks to join the community in a groundbreaking celebration for the SR 520 pontoon construction project.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Texas report: Seattle drivers stuck in traffic less than elsewhere in country</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 21 Jan 2011 02:50:06 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/20_TTIreport.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/20_TTIreport.htm</guid>
      <description>Seattle’s urban-area drivers spend less time stuck in traffic than drivers in similar-size areas around the country, according to a report today from the Texas Transportation Institute (TTI).</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Ridership on Amtrak Cascades hits all-time record in 2010</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 20 Jan 2011 01:01:41 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/011911_AmtrakCascades2010ridership.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/011911_AmtrakCascades2010ridership.htm</guid>
      <description>2010 Amtrak Cascades ridership report</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT mourns the loss of one of its own</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 18 Jan 2011 03:22:16 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/17_WSDOTWorkerKilled.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/17_WSDOTWorkerKilled.htm</guid>
      <description>PRESTON – The Washington State Department of Transportation’s thoughts today are with the family of Billy Rhynalds, a 12-year veteran of the WSDOT maintenance team out of Preston.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT picks best-value bidder for I-5 paver near Burlington</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 15 Jan 2011 05:11:58 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/14_I5JoeLearyBestValue.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/14_I5JoeLearyBestValue.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews will rebuild and repave a 12-mile stretch of northbound I-5 between Burlington and Bellingham in 2011. Contractor Granite Construction Inc. submitted the apparent best-value proposal to design and build the project.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Washington to create nation’s first electric vehicle-friendly scenic byway along U.S. 2</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 13 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/firstElectricVehicleHighway.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/firstElectricVehicleHighway.htm</guid>
      <description>Washington to create nation’s first electric vehicle-friendly scenic byway along U.S. 2</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 pontoon construction coming to Aberdeen</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 12 Jan 2011 01:26:17 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/_11_SR520PontoonFedApproval.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/_11_SR520PontoonFedApproval.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Construction starts as soon as mid-February on a facility in Aberdeen to produce massive concrete pontoons for the State Route 520 floating bridge – a project expected to employ hundreds of workers in the Grays Harbor area.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Five weeks of overnight SR 520 bridge closures start Monday</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 10 Jan 2011 02:42:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/9_SR520overnightclosures.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/9_SR520overnightclosures.htm</guid>
      <description>Late-night closures of the State Route 520 floating bridge are planned during the next five weeks as crews install equipment above the lanes for electronic tolling.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Another step forward: WSDOT signs contract for SR 99 bored tunnel with Seattle Tunnel Partners</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 07 Jan 2011 07:59:39 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/6_SR99_contract.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/6_SR99_contract.htm</guid>
      <description>The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) today signed a contract with Seattle Tunnel Partners to design and build the SR 99 bored tunnel – the preferred alternative for replacing the seismically unsafe Alaskan Way Viaduct along Seattle’s downtown waterfront.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>National experts deliver final report on I-405/SR 167 express toll lanes</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 05 Jan 2011 06:56:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/ERPReport.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/01/ERPReport.htm</guid>
      <description>A proposed express toll lane system is a viable and appropriate strategy for improving mobility in the Interstate 405 and State Route 167 corridor, according to a report by national tolling experts sent today to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT).</description>
    </item>
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