http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/ Copyright WSDOT 2008. All rights reserved. bertraj@wsdot.wa.gov (Jeremy Bertrand) Washington State Department of Transportation Sat, 25 May 2013 11:51:58 GMT 15 http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Public/images/nav/wsdot2g4.gif http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 03:04:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/27_oneyearof520tolling.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/27_oneyearof520tolling.htm As tolling reaches its first anniversary, SR 520 traffic and revenue continue to meet projections and are on the way to providing more than $1 billion in funding to help pay for the construction of a new bridge. Traffic is adjusting to variable tolls and settling into a new normal. Wed, 26 Dec 2012 12:08:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/25US2ReopenedStevensLeavenworth.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/25US2ReopenedStevensLeavenworth.htm US 2 reopened from Stevens Pass east to Leavenworth Christmas afternoon as bending trees threatening to fall onto the highway shed their excess snow naturally due to a change in weather. Sat, 22 Dec 2012 00:44:20 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/SR99BoringMachine_1221.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/SR99BoringMachine_1221.htm Last week, the world’s largest-diameter tunneling machine received a name. This week, it received U.S. visitors, as State Route 99 Tunnel Project leaders traveled to Japan to witness testing of the five-story-tall behemoth that will begin tunneling beneath downtown Seattle next summer. Fri, 21 Dec 2012 05:55:07 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/20_travelers_rest_open.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/20_travelers_rest_open.htm Holiday travelers and skiers enjoying new snow at Snoqualmie Pass this weekend won’t see the finished product but will have indoor facilities available starting Friday, Dec. 21, one month ahead of schedule. Tue, 18 Dec 2012 08:45:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/17_first_I5_snow.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/17_first_I5_snow.htm Drivers traveling along the Interstate 5 corridor could see their first winter blast overnight, and wake to snow and ice for the Tuesday morning commute. Mon, 17 Dec 2012 08:07:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/windstormSR520_1216.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/windstormSR520_1216.htm With gusty winds forecast for Puget Sound and heavy snow forecast for the passes, Washington State Department of Transportation maintenance and bridge crews spent Sunday fighting snow in the passes and tracking the next storm system as it moves into the state. Sat, 08 Dec 2012 08:35:57 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/07US2WSPnoparkingSki.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/07US2WSPnoparkingSki.htm The State Patrol is actively assisting the effort to solve congestion at the summit of Stevens Pass due to illegal parking Fri, 07 Dec 2012 06:52:22 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/06_20MorrisParkerOpenHouse.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/06_20MorrisParkerOpenHouse.htm WSDOT will hostan open house from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, in the Coupeville High School commons Tue, 04 Dec 2012 08:26:06 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/GNB47_News_All_Items.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/GNB47_News_All_Items.htm OLYMPIA – Topics in the latest edition of the Washington State Department of Transportation’s quarterly performance report – the Gray Notebook – take flight, ride the rails and hit the water. Tue, 04 Dec 2012 01:30:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/3_Freight_Detour.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/3_Freight_Detour.htm Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:28:05 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/2012BridgeFunds.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/2012BridgeFunds.htm 70 aging bridges receive money for improvements Thu, 22 Nov 2012 05:23:04 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/2013STIP.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/2013STIP.htm Washington’s 4-year program of transportation projects ready for review Wed, 21 Nov 2012 05:14:24 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/20SR20NCHClosed.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/20SR20NCHClosed.htm The North Cascades Highway's temporary closure on Monday became a season ending closure due to heavy snow and big avalanches. Wed, 21 Nov 2012 04:13:27 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/20_traindisruptioninto.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/20_traindisruptioninto.htm EVERETT – This week’s heavy rains triggered mudslides near Everett that affected Amtrak Cascades service, and passengers are reminded of avenues to check train status: Tue, 20 Nov 2012 07:03:15 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/19_StormyCommuteWesternWA.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/19_StormyCommuteWesternWA.htm SEATTLE – Drivers from Puget Sound to Vancouver should plan ahead for gnarly commutes this week as a series of storms barrel across Western Washington. Sat, 17 Nov 2012 02:25:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/16_thanksgiving2012travel.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/16_thanksgiving2012travel.htm Miss Manners says holidays are the time to unplug and concentrate on family. But before travelers unplug this Thanksgiving weekend, the Washington State Department of Transportation says plug in that electronic device to find the latest on travel and traffic. Fri, 16 Nov 2012 01:16:49 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/15_Statewidestripingwrapsup.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/15_Statewidestripingwrapsup.htm It’s been a busy seven weeks for crews putting down brighter, tougher lane stripes on some of the busiest traffic areas in the state. As the rain moves in, though, crews are packing up for the season. Wed, 14 Nov 2012 09:03:13 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/13_StateRailPlanningWorkshop.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/13_StateRailPlanningWorkshop.htm OLYMPIA – The public is invited to help develop the next statewide rail plan and shape the future of rail at a newly scheduled public workshop in Seattle. Recent workshops in Spokane and Seattle were at capacity, and the upcoming Seattle workshop already has several participants registered. Wed, 14 Nov 2012 01:49:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/ChinookCayuse2012closure.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/ChinookCayuse2012closure.htm Highway crews closed Chinook (State Route 410) and Cayuse (State Route 123) passes early Monday morning after multiple snow slides. After further inspection, maintenance and avalanche teams decided to close the passes for the rest of the season. Sat, 10 Nov 2012 01:23:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/09_election_signs_removed_2012.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/09_election_signs_removed_2012.htm Now that the elections are over, it’s time to remove campaign signs from private properties along state highways. Sat, 10 Nov 2012 01:03:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/09_NewSR520BridgePontoonPage.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/09_NewSR520BridgePontoonPage.htm Project overview video explains pontoon construction progress and challenges SEATTLE – Keeping in line with the agency’s commitment to openness and transparency, the Washington State Department of Transportation has published a new website, giving access to State Route 520 pontoon videos, interviews and correspondence. Tue, 06 Nov 2012 06:46:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/CSA_2012.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/CSA_2012.htm Easing traffic congestion is just part of the work they do. For the recipients of the 2012 Governor’s Commute Smart Awards, leadership goes beyond a normal day’s work; it makes Washington state a better place to live and work for everyone. This year’s 22 honorees represent a growing movement in transportation leadership in the workplace. Thu, 01 Nov 2012 01:40:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/31_chainsonboard_reminder.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/31_chainsonboard_reminder.htm OLYMPIA – Drivers traveling over Washington’s mountain pass highways should carry a few extra items starting Thursday, Nov. 1. For those piloting heavy trucks, that should becomes a must. Fri, 26 Oct 2012 04:08:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/25_520CostsLoanAndPontoons.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/25_520CostsLoanAndPontoons.htm Constructing the full State Route 520 corridor from Interstate 5 to Redmond, including a new floating bridge and six-lane highway, is estimated to cost $522 million less than the 2009 legislative budget cap, the Washington State Department of Transportation said today, citing a good bid environment and other factors. WSDOT finalized documents today for a $300 million federal loan that will fund design and construction of the next portion of the SR 520 project – a westbound bridge between the Fri, 26 Oct 2012 03:02:56 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/25_state-rail-plan-public-opinion.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/25_state-rail-plan-public-opinion.htm The public is invited to help develop the next statewide rail plan at two public workshops in Spokane and Seattle next week. Public input will help shape the future of the state’s rail system. Mon, 22 Oct 2012 23:41:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/22_I-90constructionwrap.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/22_I-90constructionwrap.htm Drivers traveling across Interstate 90 have patiently waited to hear these words: Delays related to work zones on Snoqualmie Pass are almost finished until next year. Rock-blasting closures are done for the season, the new westbound lanes are open to traffic and roadside work zones will be cleared by November. Mon, 22 Oct 2012 21:37:28 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/22_12_I-90publichearingSEIS.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/22_12_I-90publichearingSEIS.htm For more than 60 years, the snowshed along Interstate 90 has been a familiar passageway to travelers making their way across Washington state. Now the state is considering a new look for one of its most-traveled roadways: replacing the snowshed with avalanche bridges. Sat, 20 Oct 2012 05:05:46 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/19_I90_auto_speed_enforcement_wrapsup.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/19_I90_auto_speed_enforcement_wrapsup.htm A safety project on Snoqualmie Pass comes to an end today with the removal of automated speed-enforcement cameras in the construction zone. Using the mobile camera proved effective at slowing drivers speeding through the work zone. Sat, 20 Oct 2012 02:39:32 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/19_2012_winter_coming.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/19_2012_winter_coming.htm While some may cheer and others lament, it’s inevitable – and coming sooner than you think. Forecasts call for snow late tonight and early Saturday morning at elevations above 3,000 feet, which means those traveling over mountain passes across Washington state may see flakes on the windshield. Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:19:25 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/18_delayedtollbills.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/18_delayedtollbills.htm Year-end accounting of the Good To Go! tolling system revealed that approximately 350,000 transactions from the State Route 520 and Tacoma Narrows bridges – mostly associated with out-of-state license plates – were not processed into Pay By Mail bills in a timely manner. Tue, 16 Oct 2012 02:36:49 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/15_sr542artistpointclosed.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/15_sr542artistpointclosed.htm MOUNT BAKER – With snow in the forecast for tonight and tomorrow at Mount Baker, crews plan to close the road to Artist Point for the season Tuesday morning, Oct. 16. Tue, 09 Oct 2012 01:53:47 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/8_PointDefianceBypass.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/8_PointDefianceBypass.htm Amtrak Cascades passengers are one step closer to more frequent and reliable rail service between Seattle and Portland. Engineers recently completed a study of proposed bypass that would reroute the service away from the congested Point Defiance train corridor along Puget Sound to a lesser-used inland route. Sat, 06 Oct 2012 00:22:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/6-day+lane+closure+I-90_05.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/6-day+lane+closure+I-90_05.htm Drivers could face major delays when crews reduce Interstate 90 over Snoqualmie Pass to one lane in each direction. Crews will close one lane in each direction of the highway for six days, starting Oct. 14, as they prepare to open a brand new section of highway. Wed, 03 Oct 2012 04:29:23 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/2012ExcellenceAwards.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/2012ExcellenceAwards.htm City and county transportation projects shine as “best of the best” Tue, 02 Oct 2012 01:15:52 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/01_workzone_speed_citations.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/01_workzone_speed_citations.htm SNOQUALMIE PASS – Citations have been mailed to 301 vehicle owners whose cars were speeding through the work zone on Interstate 90 at Snoqualmie Pass. The $137 citations will begin arriving in mailboxes soon for drivers caught speeding between Sept. 17 and 28. Sat, 29 Sep 2012 00:06:12 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/SmallBusinessProgram.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/SmallBusinessProgram.htm New tool opens door to transportation-related jobs for small businesses Sat, 22 Sep 2012 00:18:52 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/NoticetoContactorTaylorBridge.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/NoticetoContactorTaylorBridge.htm WSDOT holds contractor to fire-safety requirements at Taylor Bridge Fri, 21 Sep 2012 05:13:42 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/20_bridgesappearmelted.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/20_bridgesappearmelted.htm Even The New York Times today paid attention to a tweet from the Washington State Department of Transportation when the agency assured people the iconic Tacoma Narrows Bridges have not melted. Tue, 18 Sep 2012 03:15:51 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/17_vehicleholdsplacedforunpaidtolls.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/17_vehicleholdsplacedforunpaidtolls.htm Vehicle registration holds placed for some toll violators Thu, 13 Sep 2012 23:28:47 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/13_i5crackedconcretepanels.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/13_i5crackedconcretepanels.htm BELLINGHAM – Two cracked concrete panels on Interstate 5 in Bellingham are breaking apart, and if they’re not soon replaced, they could become a headache for maintenance crews and drivers this winter. Tue, 11 Sep 2012 03:50:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/10_workzone_speed_camera_I90.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/10_workzone_speed_camera_I90.htm Automated speed-enforcement cameras coming to Snoqualmie Pass Sat, 08 Sep 2012 00:27:34 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/7_statewidedurablestriping.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/7_statewidedurablestriping.htm The worn-out stripes along some of the state’s busiest highways will soon be a thing of the past as crews get ready to restripe about 40 miles of roadway, in eight counties, along six routes. Tue, 28 Aug 2012 01:30:02 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/2012+Congestion+Report.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/2012+Congestion+Report.htm OLYMPIA – Washingtonians spent 16 percent more time looking at brake lights in 2011 than they did in 2009 as congestion and traffic delay increased on state highways. Despite the surge, the Washington State Department of Transportation’s 2012 Congestion Report notes that traffic increased by 3 percent from 2010 to 2011. Fri, 24 Aug 2012 23:32:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/24_InvSavesTaxpayersMillions.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/24_InvSavesTaxpayersMillions.htm Motorists seldom need to drive far on the highway to see it – a dented stretch of guardrail, a busted strand of cable barrier or chunks of concrete chipped off the underside of a bridge. Wed, 22 Aug 2012 22:36:31 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/GNB46_1.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/GNB46_1.htm OLYMPIA – ­When the Gray Notebook comes off the press and hits the Internet this week, those who regularly read the Washington State Department of Transportation’s quarterly performance report on the state’s transportation system might do a double take. Tue, 21 Aug 2012 23:49:16 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/21_stateBicyclePedestrianCount.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/21_stateBicyclePedestrianCount.htm Wed, 08 Aug 2012 23:41:13 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/08_sr532constructionstartsnextyear.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/08_sr532constructionstartsnextyear.htm Plans are in the works to raise and widen SR 532 and replace the Davis Slough Bridge. WSDOT engineers are designing the improvements now and expect to start construction in summer 2013. Sat, 04 Aug 2012 03:50:12 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/2012FederalDiscretionaryGrants.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/2012FederalDiscretionaryGrants.htm Washington transportation projects awarded federal grants Wed, 01 Aug 2012 00:20:54 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/31_sr542pavingbegins.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/31_sr542pavingbegins.htm Crews will repave three miles of Mount Baker Highway (State Route 542) east of Glacier this summer between Fossil Creek and Wells Creek Road (mileposts 38-41). The work will begin Tuesday, Aug. 7, and continue through mid-September. Tue, 24 Jul 2012 01:20:08 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/23_sr542artistpointopens.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/23_sr542artistpointopens.htm The road to Artist Point was buried under 20 to 30 feet of snow when crews began clearing Mount Baker Highway in early June. Since then, they have pushed, plowed and blown their way up the mountain to clear the scenic route and vista. The road will open Tuesday, July 24, for the first time since 2010. Thu, 19 Jul 2012 00:37:23 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/ADAreportingtools.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/ADAreportingtools.htm New tools ease public reporting of access, ADA accommodation matters Wed, 18 Jul 2012 22:33:05 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/18_TollVendorSettlement.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/18_TollVendorSettlement.htm Toll vendor Electronic Transaction Consultants (ETC) has agreed to a $6.4 million settlement compensating the state for the damages associated to delays in starting tolling on State Route 520 last year. Tue, 17 Jul 2012 22:32:02 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/17_EarlyH2K.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/17_EarlyH2K.htm The southern half of Seattle's State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct is gone, a vanishing act performed by demolition crews last fall about six months ahead of schedule. Now comes the encore: completion this fall of the new SR 99 south of downtown. Sat, 14 Jul 2012 05:34:12 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/13US2TuesdayRockfallDelays.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/13US2TuesdayRockfallDelays.htm Next Tuesday, a rock slope stabilization project west of the US 2 Stevens Pass summit will require occasional closures of at least ten minutes while crews bring down some very large unstable boulders from the mountainside above the highway. Wed, 11 Jul 2012 22:18:19 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/11_us395columbiariverbridge.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/11_us395columbiariverbridge.htm Repair work starts July 23 on the US 395/SR20 Columbia River bridge at Kettle Falls Drivers can expect a full-time temporary traffic signal and up to 20 overnight closures Wed, 11 Jul 2012 03:53:08 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/10_2012STPride.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/10_2012STPride.htm Pedaling more than 200 miles might sound painful, but those gearing up for the Group Health Seattle to Portland Bicycle Classic this weekend look forward to it all year. Sat, 07 Jul 2012 00:54:57 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/06_i5sr539pavinginbellingham.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/06_i5sr539pavinginbellingham.htm A number of rough and bumpy spots on Interstate 5 and Guide Meridian (State Route 539) in Bellingham will be smoother by next weekend. Maintenance crews plan to repair and repave several areas next week, and that means nightly lane and ramp closures for drivers. Fri, 06 Jul 2012 04:45:52 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/05_i5pavementrepairs.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/05_i5pavementrepairs.htm Clearer skies and warmer weather are back – and that’s good news for Granite Construction crews working to repair and repave Interstate 5 between Burlington and Lake Samish. The dry, warm weather means crews can finish the job they started last year for the Washington State Department of Transportation. Sat, 30 Jun 2012 03:54:47 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/WSF+SAO+GNB+45.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/WSF+SAO+GNB+45.htm OLYMPIA – ¬Whether crossing the Puget Sound or winding their way through the San Juan Islands, ¬Washington State Ferries riders enjoy one of the most reliable ferry systems in the world. In the first part of 2012, that reliability along with on-time performance got even better. Wed, 27 Jun 2012 04:13:16 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/26_SR99-tolling-meeting.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/26_SR99-tolling-meeting.htm The SR 99 Tunnel Project’s Advisory Committee on Tolling and Traffic Management meets tomorrow to learn about preliminary traffic modeling results based on three potential toll scenarios that the committee discussed in April. Wed, 27 Jun 2012 04:04:07 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/26_i5samishrampreopens.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/26_i5samishrampreopens.htm With an additional three football fields of length now added, the much longer Samish Way on-ramp to northbound Interstate 5 in Bellingham reopens this week, giving drivers significantly more room to accelerate and merge with traffic. Tue, 26 Jun 2012 01:20:15 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/25_sr21kellerferryname.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/25_sr21kellerferryname.htm Newest and smallest ferry vessel named Sanpoil New Keller Ferry boat under construction Sat, 23 Jun 2012 04:56:19 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/22_SixMonths520Tolls.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/22_SixMonths520Tolls.htm For the first six months, tolling on the 520 bridge is working as planned. Weekday traffic is free flowing for the first time in decades during the peak commute times, and revenue generated by tolling is ahead of forecasts. This trajectory puts us slightly ahead of the finance plan, keeping the Washington State Department of Transportation on track with making the debt payments needed to pay for the bridge construction. Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:11:48 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/21_i5laneclosedforpaving.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/21_i5laneclosedforpaving.htm A half-mile of southbound I-5 with the worst cracking and crumbling, between the Cook Road (exit 232) and Chuckanut Drive (exit 231) interchanges, will be repaved June 25 through 28. Wed, 20 Jun 2012 04:34:07 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/19_10MillionUSDOTGrant_NSpokaneCor.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/19_10MillionUSDOTGrant_NSpokaneCor.htm WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) and U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA-05) announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) will award a $10 million competitive grant to the North Spokane Corridor (NSC)project on Friday. Mon, 18 Jun 2012 22:54:52 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/GrayNotebookWeighStations.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/GrayNotebookWeighStations.htm Weigh station innovations saving truckers time Fri, 15 Jun 2012 23:46:59 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/15_Freight_Congestion_Report.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/15_Freight_Congestion_Report.htm Increased congestion on Washington’s highways will result in thousands of lost jobs in freight-dependent businesses and more than a $3 billion hit to Washington’s economy, a new report concludes. Tue, 12 Jun 2012 04:56:24 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/11_12+bridging+futures+2012.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/11_12+bridging+futures+2012.htm Gov. Chris Gregoire recognized two young artists during a surprise award ceremony today, June 11, for their outstanding creativity in the eighth annual Interstate 90 Bridging Futures Art and Essay Contest. The ceremony took place during the annual conference for the Western Governors’ Association at Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum. Tue, 12 Jun 2012 01:24:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/061012_freightrail.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/061012_freightrail.htm The Washington State Department of Transportation is accepting applications to receive state funding for freight rail projects in Washington that create family-wage jobs and demonstrate the economic and environmental advantages of freight rail. Fri, 08 Jun 2012 01:54:23 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/2012CitySafety.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/2012CitySafety.htm Roadway safety funding benefits 40 Washington cities Thu, 07 Jun 2012 02:09:33 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/6_AWV-tbm-groundbreaking.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/6_AWV-tbm-groundbreaking.htm It won’t float, but it will be as big as a ferry boat. So it’s only fitting that crews building the State Route 99 Tunnel Project have started digging a Puget Sound-sized pit where the world’s largest diameter tunnel boring machine will begin its historic journey beneath downtown Seattle. Thu, 31 May 2012 00:01:03 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/30_tollsincreasejuly1.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/30_tollsincreasejuly1.htm Tolls increase July 1, 2012 on Tacoma Narrows and SR 520 bridges Wed, 30 May 2012 22:05:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/30_newevstations.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/30_newevstations.htm The border-to-border vision of the West Coast Electric Highway moves closer to becoming a reality today with the opening of new EV charging sites, extending the highway to the Canadian border and opening it to electric vehicle (EV) drivers from both countries. Sat, 26 May 2012 02:45:58 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/Chinookreopening2012.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/Chinookreopening2012.htm Chinook Pass reopened in time for Memorial Day weekend. Fri, 25 May 2012 23:21:34 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/WashingtonMostBikeFriendly.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/WashingtonMostBikeFriendly.htm Washington No. 1 ‘Bicycle-Friendly State’ five years running Fri, 25 May 2012 04:26:03 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/24_i5rampclosureextended.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/24_i5rampclosureextended.htm The Samish Way on-ramp to northbound Interstate 5 in Bellingham has been closed since April and will remain closed one more month while crews finish building a retaining wall to support and lengthen the ramp. Thu, 24 May 2012 07:40:03 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/22_WSDOTDrugAlcoholPolicy.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/22_WSDOTDrugAlcoholPolicy.htm A safe transportation system is the Washington State Department of Transportation’s highest priority. To safely build, operate, and maintain that system, we have long-held and clear policies that strictly prohibit any drug or alcohol use by state employees in the workplace. Tue, 22 May 2012 04:11:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/Memorial_Day_2012.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/Memorial_Day_2012.htm Memorial Day signals the unofficial kickoff for summer travel, and the Washington State Department of Transportation reminds drivers to plan their trips before taking off this weekend. Sat, 19 May 2012 01:09:16 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/18_SR520PontoonFloatoutDelay.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/18_SR520PontoonFloatoutDelay.htm SEATTLE – Float-out of the first six concrete pontoons for the new State Route 520 floating bridge will be delayed to allow crews time to make repairs and modifications after damaged concrete was found in one of the pontoons. Tue, 15 May 2012 23:24:06 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/15_AWV-closed-5-18-21.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/15_AWV-closed-5-18-21.htm Crews will close the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct this weekend to continue reinforcing a two-block section of the structure located above the route of the future SR 99 tunnel. Fri, 11 May 2012 02:29:21 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/10SR20NCHReopens.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/10SR20NCHReopens.htm SR 20, the North Cascades Highway reopend to traffic at noon, Thursday, May 10. Fri, 04 May 2012 03:52:45 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/03_sr546communitymeeting.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/03_sr546communitymeeting.htm Lane closures and traffic delays will be inevitable when two roundabouts planned for Badger Road (State Route 546) in Lynden go to construction next year. That’s why engineers are making plans now to keep traffic moving through the busy intersections during construction. Local drivers and residents can learn about those plans – and the new roundabouts – at an upcoming community meeting. Wed, 02 May 2012 23:51:52 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/SurplusPropertiesSpring2012.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/SurplusPropertiesSpring2012.htm Surplus properties go on the auction block Sat, 28 Apr 2012 03:13:20 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/27_SR9SR531RoundaboutConstruction.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/27_SR9SR531RoundaboutConstruction.htm Crews kick off construction next week on a new roundabout at the intersection of State Route 9 and SR 531 near Arlington. Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/25_sr9twonewlanes.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/25_sr9twonewlanes.htm Cross-border travelers will soon find shorter lines at the State Route 9 border crossing in Sumas thanks to a little lane adjustment and some new striping. Thu, 19 Apr 2012 03:08:26 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/18_2012_workzone_safety.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/18_2012_workzone_safety.htm OLYMPIA – It’s simple really: See orange, slow down. Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:44:48 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/041212_US2_RiceRoadRoundabout.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/041212_US2_RiceRoadRoundabout.htm New roundabout opens ahead of schedule on US 2 at Rice Road. Tue, 10 Apr 2012 23:05:53 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/10_WSDOTbeginsnewtollenforcementprogram.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/10_WSDOTbeginsnewtollenforcementprogram.htm WSDOT begins new toll enforcement program Tue, 03 Apr 2012 02:03:46 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/2_ConstructionresumesonI-90.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/2_ConstructionresumesonI-90.htm After a long winter break, construction is getting ready to resume on two major Interstate 90 projects east of Snoqualmie Pass. And that means drivers who cross the pass should prepare for construction related closures and delays. Fri, 30 Mar 2012 02:42:49 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/29_emergency_landslide_fix.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/29_emergency_landslide_fix.htm OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Transportation is applying for emergency federal funds to repair highways in Mason and Clark counties damaged by landslides. Thu, 29 Mar 2012 22:34:57 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/032912_US2_RiceRoadclosure.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/032912_US2_RiceRoadclosure.htm US 2 at Rice Road reduced to one lane April 8-13 Wed, 28 Mar 2012 03:47:25 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/BikePedGrants2012.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/BikePedGrants2012.htm Grant funding available for community projects that improve conditions for bicycling, walking Fri, 23 Mar 2012 06:36:17 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/22SR20NCHReopenStart.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/22SR20NCHReopenStart.htm Reopening of the North Cascades Highway starts Mar. 26. Despite another La Nina winter, crews are optimistic SR 20 could reopen by May. Fri, 23 Mar 2012 03:15:33 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/22_i5newtrafficcameras.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/22_i5newtrafficcameras.htm When the information superhighway meets the state highway system, drivers can get real-time traffic information before they ever hit the road. Travelers in Whatcom County are about to reap the benefits of technology when crews install 21 new traffic cameras this year. Thu, 22 Mar 2012 05:12:19 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/21_studded_tire_extension.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/21_studded_tire_extension.htm Drivers have an extra two weeks to remove their studded tires this year. Wed, 21 Mar 2012 03:12:19 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/2012TIGER4Grants.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/2012TIGER4Grants.htm State’s TIGER IV applications support increased mobility, travel choices and international trade Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:37:08 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/20_i5samishrampclosure.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/20_i5samishrampclosure.htm The Samish Way on-ramp to northbound Interstate 5 in Bellingham will close to traffic starting in April, when work to lengthen the ramp resumes. The project has been on hold for the winter months but is scheduled to resume with warmer weather arriving. Fri, 16 Mar 2012 03:34:39 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/15_kssrestoration.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/15_kssrestoration.htm Federal, state and local officials got a behind the scenes tour today, March 15, of recently completed King Street Station improvements as they kicked off the next phase of the station’s ongoing historic restoration. Thu, 15 Mar 2012 23:36:11 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/15_CheckMailForTollBills.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/15_CheckMailForTollBills.htm Motorists who crossed the State Route 520 bridge or Tacoma Narrows Bridge without a Good To Go! account, should check their mail for a toll bill. Thu, 01 Mar 2012 06:26:22 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/SR3_FuneralProcession.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/SR3_FuneralProcession.htm Procession honoring fallen WSP Trooper Thursday Wed, 29 Feb 2012 05:53:26 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/28_SR99_toll_committee.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/28_SR99_toll_committee.htm The SR 99 Tunnel Project’s Advisory Committee on Tolling and Traffic Management meets Wednesday to continue exploring ways to reduce traffic diversion due to tunnel tolls and meet the project’s funding goals. Committee members will review current freight and transit traffic movements and downtown and waterfront planning efforts. Wed, 22 Feb 2012 02:52:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/21_ViaductReplacement.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/21_ViaductReplacement.htm Expert panel confirms viaduct replacement on schedule, on budget Thu, 02 Feb 2012 07:03:31 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/EqualOpportunityDisparityStudy.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/EqualOpportunityDisparityStudy.htm Statewide meetings kick off disparity study Thu, 26 Jan 2012 06:09:44 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/2012SafeRoutesToSchool.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/2012SafeRoutesToSchool.htm WSDOT seeking projects for the Safe Routes to School Program Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:19:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_WSDOTWorkerInjuries.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_WSDOTWorkerInjuries.htm Two Washington State Department of Transportation workers injured today while helping keep state roadways open during the winter storm are expected to make full recoveries, WSDOT said today. Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:13:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_icestorm_update2.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_icestorm_update2.htm OLYMPIA – Commutes will remain difficult through the night and into Friday as this winter storm continues to pack a punch. Fri, 20 Jan 2012 02:35:39 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_icestorm_update.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_icestorm_update.htm OLYMPIA - Collisions and tree limbs are piling up on state highways, the Washington State Department of Transportation said today. Drivers may face long delays from icy conditions and road and lane closures throughout the state. Thu, 19 Jan 2012 23:24:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_commute_icestorm.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_commute_icestorm.htm OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Transportation today urged drivers to use extreme caution because of ice on roadways from freezing rain. Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:25:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/18_IceWarning.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/18_IceWarning.htm Today’s western Washington snowfall, as much as 14 inches in some spots in Pierce and Thurston counties, now gives way to a bigger concern on the roads: ice you can’t see.Forecasts call for dropping temperatures overnight and wet roadways turning to ice. Wed, 18 Jan 2012 07:37:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/17_winter_storm_pm_report.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/17_winter_storm_pm_report.htm Weather conditions tonight, tomorrow and into Thursday are shaping up to make roadway conditions potentially treacherous, the Washington State Department of Transportation said today. Sat, 14 Jan 2012 07:15:00 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/13_mlkjrweekendsnow.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/13_mlkjrweekendsnow.htm Road crews statewide are gearing up for what could be the biggest snowstorm of winter 2011-2012, with snow expected from the Hood Canal north to Bellingham, south to Vancouver and east to Spokane. Fri, 13 Jan 2012 04:50:32 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/12_First520TollBills.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/12_First520TollBills.htm Within the next week, 19,000 State Route 520 toll bills will arrive in mailboxes across the Puget Sound region. That might seem like a lot, but it’s far fewer bills than the Washington State Department of Transportation expected to send. Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:04:12 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/05_SR520_Driverstweakcommute.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/05_SR520_Driverstweakcommute.htm Drivers are navigating toward a new normal as they tweak their commute times and routes and get used to tolling on State Route 520. Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:28:08 GMT http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/03_sr520newyearnewcommute.htm http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/03_sr520newyearnewcommute.htm The holidays are over and the commuters are back. Many returned to work or school in the Central Puget Sound region to find their primary route across Lake Washington, the State Route 520 floating bridge, now requires an electronic toll.