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  <channel>
    <title>WSDOT - 2012</title>
    <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/</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>Tue, 21 May 2013 03:48:15 GMT</lastBuildDate>
    <ttl>
          15
        </ttl>
    <image>
      <title>WSDOT - 2012</title>
      <url>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Public/images/nav/wsdot2g4.gif</url>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/</link>
    </image>
    <item>
      <title>A year of growth: One year of SR 520 tolling in the books</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 28 Dec 2012 03:04:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/27_oneyearof520tolling.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/27_oneyearof520tolling.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT’s 2013 construction season begins…now</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 28 Dec 2012 02:43:03 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/27_2013ConstructionSeasonKicksOff.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/27_2013ConstructionSeasonKicksOff.htm</guid>
      <description>Put away that Santa hat and reindeer sweater. Orange construction vests and hard hats are now the fashion as the Washington State Department of Transportation kicks off a very early annual construction season.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>US 2 reopened between Stevens Pass &amp; Leavenworth</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 26 Dec 2012 12:08:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/25US2ReopenedStevensLeavenworth.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/25US2ReopenedStevensLeavenworth.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Experts confirm rebar provides pontoon structural capacity</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 22 Dec 2012 04:23:12 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/21_erp-confirms-rebar-capacity.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/21_erp-confirms-rebar-capacity.htm</guid>
      <description>An analysis using computer modeling, onsite inspections and engineering calculations has determined that rebar in corner joints in three completed pontoons for the State Route 520 bridge provides the required structural capacity.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Testing time for State Route 99 tunneling machine</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 22 Dec 2012 00:44:20 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/SR99BoringMachine_1221.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/SR99BoringMachine_1221.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Safety Rest Area upgraded at Snoqualmie summit</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 21 Dec 2012 05:55:07 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/20_travelers_rest_open.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/20_travelers_rest_open.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 closure Thursday night to ready highway for holiday travel</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 20 Dec 2012 07:14:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/19_520ThursdayNightClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/19_520ThursdayNightClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Drivers should prepare for several closures of the State Route 520 corridor Thursday night, Dec. 20. Three floating bridge drawspan openings are scheduled in the evening, as well as a full highway closure overnight.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SODO overpass construction closes State Route 99 off-ramp this weekend</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 19 Dec 2012 06:59:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/18_99rampclosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/18_99rampclosure.htm</guid>
      <description>All lanes of SR 99 remain open thanks to successful first weekend of pile driving

Crews working with the Washington State Department of Transportation will close the southbound State Route 99 off-ramp near Seattle’s stadiums this weekend to complete pile driving for the new South Atlantic Street overpass.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-5 drivers could see first flakes overnight</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 18 Dec 2012 08:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/17_first_I5_snow.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/17_first_I5_snow.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews fight snow in the passes and prep for next round of wind in Puget Sound</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 17 Dec 2012 08:07:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/windstormSR520_1216.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/windstormSR520_1216.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Continued progress on SR 520 east approach bridge piers</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 15 Dec 2012 06:24:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/14_520PierUpdate.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/14_520PierUpdate.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Upcoming work on piers and columns for the new State Route 520 bridge will involve excavation in the lakebed inside a protective steel curtain known as a cofferdam.  Crews are also removing and replacing one of 10 concrete columns atop a pontoon where the concrete pour failed to meet quality specifications.

These developments are part of the progress under way on the eastern piers and columns that will support the floating and fixed structures. When complete, the eastern portion of</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Girder setting marks turning point for US 2 overpass near  Snohomish</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 15 Dec 2012 00:53:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/14_US2GirderSetting.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/14_US2GirderSetting.htm</guid>
      <description>SNOHOMISH – Drivers who use US 2 near Snohomish should plan ahead for three overnight closures next week as construction crews reach a major milestone on construction of a new overpass.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews to smooth the edges of I-405 in Renton next week</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 14 Dec 2012 23:55:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/I-405Grinding_1214.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/I-405Grinding_1214.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers will see a different kind of daily grind than their usual morning coffee or commute on Interstate 405 in Renton next week.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 99 tunnel tolling committee meets Wednesday</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 12 Dec 2012 05:18:45 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/11_sr99-tolling-committee.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/11_sr99-tolling-committee.htm</guid>
      <description>The State Route 99 Tunnel Project’s Advisory Committee on Tolling and Traffic Management will meet tomorrow to continue discussions about freight, bicycle and pedestrian improvement projects in downtown Seattle, as well as the 2013 meeting schedule.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Plan for two straight weekends of SR 99 lane and ramp closures near Seattle’s stadiums</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 12 Dec 2012 00:16:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/11_h2kweekend.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/11_h2kweekend.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers should plan for delays on southbound State Route 99 through downtown Seattle the next two weekends. Crews working for WSDOT will reduce SR 99 to one lane near the stadiums and close the southbound off-ramp to South Atlantic Street.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 99 tunneling machine tweets her name: Bertha</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 11 Dec 2012 02:20:10 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/10_sr99_tunnel-machine-name.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/10_sr99_tunnel-machine-name.htm</guid>
      <description>The world’s largest-diameter tunneling machine now has a name, a face and a voice. Meet Bertha, the five-story-tall steel behemoth that will begin boring the SR 99 tunnel beneath downtown Seattle next summer.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Parking on highway to ski is illegal</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 08 Dec 2012 08:35:57 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/07US2WSPnoparkingSki.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/07US2WSPnoparkingSki.htm</guid>
      <description>The State Patrol is actively assisting the effort to solve congestion at the summit of Stevens Pass due to illegal parking</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Public invited to review options for improving SR 20 near Parker, Morris roads</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 07 Dec 2012 06:52:22 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/06_20MorrisParkerOpenHouse.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/06_20MorrisParkerOpenHouse.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT will hostan open house from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, in the Coupeville High School commons</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Milepost 31 marks first anniversary, eyes a big 2013</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 06 Dec 2012 01:05:09 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/5_MP31-anniversary.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/5_MP31-anniversary.htm</guid>
      <description>Last December, Milepost 31 opened its doors and welcomed its first guests. One year and 7,000 visitors later, the Washington State Department of Transportation's first-ever public information center is eager to welcome one guest in particular: the world's largest-diameter tunneling machine.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Northbound SR 529 bridge between Everett and Marysville now open to traffic</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 05 Dec 2012 04:25:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/04_SR529Bridgeopentotraffic.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/04_SR529Bridgeopentotraffic.htm</guid>
      <description>Traffic is again moving over the northbound lanes of the State Route 529 Snohomish River bridge days after a collision caused major structural damage.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT performance report takes to land, sea, air</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 04 Dec 2012 08:26:06 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/GNB47_News_All_Items.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/GNB47_News_All_Items.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>State, business groups work to keep supplies moving during emergencies</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 04 Dec 2012 01:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/3_Freight_Detour.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/3_Freight_Detour.htm</guid>
      <description></description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Northbound State Route 529 bridge between Everett and Marysville remains closed until mid-day Tuesday</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 03 Dec 2012 06:57:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/02_SR529ClosedUntilTuesday.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/12/02_SR529ClosedUntilTuesday.htm</guid>
      <description>EVERETT – Difficult repairs and wet, cold and windy weather has pushed back the scheduled reopening of the northbound State Route 529 bridge over the Snohomish River.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>70 aging bridges receive money for improvements</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:28:05 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/2012BridgeFunds.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/2012BridgeFunds.htm</guid>
      <description>70 aging bridges receive money for improvements</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Washington’s 4-year program of transportation projects ready for review</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 22 Nov 2012 05:23:04 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/2013STIP.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/2013STIP.htm</guid>
      <description>Washington’s 4-year program of transportation projects ready for review</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Quality assurance program working as planned on pontoon project</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 22 Nov 2012 05:10:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/21_520PontoonQAProgram.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/21_520PontoonQAProgram.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Crews working in Aberdeen on cycle 2 of the pontoons for the new State Route 520 floating bridge have completed construction of 345 pre-cast concrete wall panels. Contractor Kiewit-General has rejected nine of these walls as part of their quality assurance and quality control processes required by the Washington State Department of Transportation in its pontoon contract. 

These nine panels had not yet been installed inside the pontoons. They were discarded and new concrete panels we</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 20/North Cascades Highway closed for winter</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 21 Nov 2012 05:14:24 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/20SR20NCHClosed.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/20SR20NCHClosed.htm</guid>
      <description>The North Cascades Highway's temporary closure on Monday became a season ending closure due to heavy snow and big avalanches.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Train-disruption information available to travelers</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 21 Nov 2012 04:13:27 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/20_traindisruptioninto.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/20_traindisruptioninto.htm</guid>
      <description>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:</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Heavy rains, wind could snarl evening commute for Western Washington drivers</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 20 Nov 2012 07:03:15 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/19_StormyCommuteWesternWA.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/19_StormyCommuteWesternWA.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Drivers from Puget Sound to Vancouver should plan ahead for gnarly commutes this week as a series of storms barrel across Western Washington.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Leave more time for Thanksgiving table catch-up; know before you go</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 17 Nov 2012 02:25:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/16_thanksgiving2012travel.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/16_thanksgiving2012travel.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New lane stripes brighten highways across the state</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 16 Nov 2012 01:16:49 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/15_Statewidestripingwrapsup.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/15_Statewidestripingwrapsup.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 closure and Sounders playoff game could cause weekend backups</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 15 Nov 2012 06:46:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/14_SR520WeekendClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/14_SR520WeekendClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>Seattle Sounders fans and other weekend travelers be warned: State Route 520 will be closed next weekend.

The Seattle Sounders’ postseason success has stretched the team’s schedule into a long-planned closure of SR 520. Construction crews will close the highway from 11 p.m. Friday, Nov. 16, to 5 a.m. Monday, Nov. 19. That means fans heading to and from CenturyLink Field for the 6 p.m. match Sunday, Nov. 18, should expect delays on Interstate 90 and Interstate 5. Drivers are advised to leave w</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Major work continues on new SR 520 floating bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 15 Nov 2012 03:05:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/14_SR520BridgeConstructionUpdate.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/14_SR520BridgeConstructionUpdate.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Construction crews recently completed the first concrete superstructure atop Pontoon W at the east end of Lake Washington to support the new State Route 520 floating bridge deck. The five columns are approximately 55 feet tall and 4 feet in diameter. 

In conjunction with the bridge piers in Medina, the new columns form the eastern navigation channel, which will provide 70 feet of vertical clearance for passing vessels, matching the Interstate 90 navigation channel. These columns als</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Interest exceeds capacity at state rail planning workshops</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 14 Nov 2012 09:03:13 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/13_StateRailPlanningWorkshop.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/13_StateRailPlanningWorkshop.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 99 tunnel tolling committee meets Wednesday</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 14 Nov 2012 06:42:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/13_SR99TunnelTollingCmteMtg_1114.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/13_SR99TunnelTollingCmteMtg_1114.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – The State Route 99 Tunnel Project’s Advisory Committee on Tolling and Traffic Management will meet tomorrow, Nov. 14, to discuss current and future vehicle, freight, transit, bicycle and pedestrian improvement projects in downtown Seattle. 

The meeting is from 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14, in the Puget Sound Regional Council office at 1011 Western Ave., Suite 500, in Seattle. The advisory committee, created by the city of Seattle in an agreement with the Washington State Departmen</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Avalanche risk and snow slides close Chinook and Cayuse passes for the year</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 14 Nov 2012 01:49:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/ChinookCayuse2012closure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/ChinookCayuse2012closure.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Everett-area traffic cameras out of service overnight Nov. 9</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 10 Nov 2012 03:32:04 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/09_EverettCamerasOffline.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/09_EverettCamerasOffline.htm</guid>
      <description>For a third and final weekend, crews will blank the Washington State Department of Transportation’s Everett-area traffic cameras</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Political signs near highways must be removed by Friday</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 10 Nov 2012 01:23:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/09_election_signs_removed_2012.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/09_election_signs_removed_2012.htm</guid>
      <description>Now that the elections are over, it’s time to remove campaign signs from private properties along state highways.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 bridge pontoon videos, interviews and correspondence posted online</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 10 Nov 2012 01:03:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/09_NewSR520BridgePontoonPage.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/09_NewSR520BridgePontoonPage.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New roundabout complete at busy SR 9 intersection in Arlington</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 09 Nov 2012 02:43:04 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/08_sr9roundaboutcomplete.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/08_sr9roundaboutcomplete.htm</guid>
      <description>ARLINGTON – It used to be that the intersection of State Route 9 and State Route 531 in Arlington had a lot of crashes. In a five-year span, there were 28 collisions resulting in 29 injuries, to be exact. But those crashes happened when a traffic signal directed drivers through the busy intersection.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Commute-smart champs take a bow</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 06 Nov 2012 06:46:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/CSA_2012.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/CSA_2012.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Early morning tanker fire closes southbound I-5 in Federal Way</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 05 Nov 2012 02:21:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/SBI-5_closure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/SBI-5_closure.htm</guid>
      <description>All lanes on southbound Interstate 5 at S 320th Street are open to traffic, following an early morning collision that mostly closed the freeway until 9:45 a.m.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Seattle-area traffic cameras out of service overnight Nov. 2</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 03 Nov 2012 00:08:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/2_SeattleITSoutage.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/11/2_SeattleITSoutage.htm</guid>
      <description>For the second weekend in a row, crews will blank the Washington State Department of Transportation’s Seattle-area traffic cameras while they upgrade the system behind the scenes. Crews will take down about 100 traffic cameras from 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 2, to noon Saturday, Nov. 3, while they splice new cables into the Puget Sound-area fiber optic system.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 99 tunnel tolling committee meets Thursday</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 01 Nov 2012 03:16:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/31_SR99ACTTMmeeting.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/31_SR99ACTTMmeeting.htm</guid>
      <description>The State Route 99 Tunnel Project’s Advisory Committee on Tolling and Traffic Management will meet tomorrow, Nov. 1, to discuss testing of additional toll scenarios.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews set girders for new SR 522 Snohomish River Bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 01 Nov 2012 02:16:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/31_522SnohomishRiverGirders.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/31_522SnohomishRiverGirders.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews will set girders for a new SR 522 Snohomish River bridge near Monroe</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Winter travel laws take effect Nov. 1</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 01 Nov 2012 01:40:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/31_chainsonboard_reminder.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/31_chainsonboard_reminder.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Schedules adjusted for I-5 and I-90 express lanes</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 27 Oct 2012 02:37:23 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/26_ScheduledAdjustedForI90andI5ExpressLanes.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/26_ScheduledAdjustedForI90andI5ExpressLanes.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Drivers who use the Interstate 5 and Interstate 90 express lanes should plan ahead for changes this weekend.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Seattle-area traffic cameras, flow map go dark Friday night</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 26 Oct 2012 23:00:38 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/26_ITSoutage.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/26_ITSoutage.htm</guid>
      <description>The Washington State Department of Transportation’s popular Seattle-area traffic map and cameras will be out of service Friday night as crews work to upgrade WSDOT’s Puget Sound-area fiber optic system. Crews will take down the system from 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 26, to 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 27, while they splice in new cables.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Estimate for SR 520 bridge program lowered by $522 million; $300 million federal loan finalized for next phase of construction</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 26 Oct 2012 04:08:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/25_520CostsLoanAndPontoons.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/25_520CostsLoanAndPontoons.htm</guid>
      <description>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</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>State seeks key ingredient for rail plan: public opinion</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 26 Oct 2012 03:02:56 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/25_state-rail-plan-public-opinion.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/25_state-rail-plan-public-opinion.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews preparing to finish work on Snoqualmie Pass as construction season winds down for winter</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 22 Oct 2012 23:41:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/22_I-90constructionwrap.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/22_I-90constructionwrap.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>This fall’s big decision: what to name the world’s largest-diameter tunneling machine</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 22 Oct 2012 23:12:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/22_Tunnel-naming-contest.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/22_Tunnel-naming-contest.htm</guid>
      <description>Here’s a riddle for the kids of Washington state: What do you call the record-breaking, dirt-chomping, future-changing machine that will begin tunneling beneath downtown Seattle next summer?</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Public invited to comment on changes coming to I-90 east of Snoqualmie Pass</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 22 Oct 2012 21:37:28 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/22_12_I-90publichearingSEIS.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/22_12_I-90publichearingSEIS.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Automated speed enforcement wraps up at Snoqualmie Pass</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 20 Oct 2012 05:05:46 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/19_I90_auto_speed_enforcement_wrapsup.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/19_I90_auto_speed_enforcement_wrapsup.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Winter driving coming, so get ready now</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 20 Oct 2012 02:39:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/19_2012_winter_coming.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/19_2012_winter_coming.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Major repairs planned for 3 miles of I-5 in south King County</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 20 Oct 2012 01:19:24 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/I5_Kent_PavementRepair_101912.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/I5_Kent_PavementRepair_101912.htm</guid>
      <description>Sticking with the commitment to fix the “worst of the worst” first, the Washington State Department of Transportation begins work on Monday, Oct. 22, to repair the most badly damaged concrete panels and grind down several miles of the most rutted pavement on Interstate 5 in south King County.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT reports drivers may see delayed toll bills</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:19:25 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/18_delayedtollbills.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/18_delayedtollbills.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Construction closes SR 520 until noon Sunday this weekend</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 17 Oct 2012 05:10:48 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/16_SR520WeekendClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/16_SR520WeekendClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>Construction crews kick off another State Route 520 closure this weekend, but to avoid getting a yellow card from fans rushing to make the Seattle Sounders kickoff, crews will open the roadway to traffic by midday Sunday, Oct. 21</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Updated traffic and revenue for SR 167 HOT lanes and SR 520 show no shortage of driver demand</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 17 Oct 2012 04:22:21 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/16_UpdatedTrafficRevenueHOTlanes520.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/16_UpdatedTrafficRevenueHOTlanes520.htm</guid>
      <description>Traffic and revenue are meeting or exceeding expectations on the State Route 520 floating bridge while the popularity of the State Route 167 High Occupancy Toll Lanes continues to rise, according to year-end financial statements.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews to close road to Artist Point at Mount Baker</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 16 Oct 2012 02:36:49 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/15_sr542artistpointclosed.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/15_sr542artistpointclosed.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Contractor selected to build new SR 9 bridge in northern Snohomish County</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 11 Oct 2012 03:30:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/10_sr9contractorhiredforSR9bridge.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/10_sr9contractorhiredforSR9bridge.htm</guid>
      <description>ARLINGTON – Bids to replace the one-lane, 96-year-old Pilchuck Creek bridge on State Route 9 in northern Snohomish County came in well below construction estimates. With 12 companies submitting bids, competition for the multi-million-dollar contract was aggressive.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Point Defiance Bypass moves forward with completion of environmental study</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 09 Oct 2012 01:53:47 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/8_PointDefianceBypass.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/8_PointDefianceBypass.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Roundabout opens at SR 9 intersection near Arlington</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 06 Oct 2012 01:13:27 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/05_sr9roundaboutopens.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/05_sr9roundaboutopens.htm</guid>
      <description>Though it’s still under construction, a new roundabout is now open at the intersection of State Route 9 and State Route 531, just south of Arlington. Orange barrels are guiding drivers through the roundabout while crews finish building it.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Major 6-day lane closure over Snoqualmie Pass starts Oct. 14</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 06 Oct 2012 00:22:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/6-day+lane+closure+I-90_05.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/6-day+lane+closure+I-90_05.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>City and county transportation projects shine as “best of the best”</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 03 Oct 2012 04:29:23 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/2012ExcellenceAwards.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/2012ExcellenceAwards.htm</guid>
      <description>City and county transportation projects shine as “best of the best”</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Viaduct and Aurora Bridge closed October 6 and 7</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 03 Oct 2012 02:37:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/02_viaductinspection.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/02_viaductinspection.htm</guid>
      <description>From SODO to Fremont, much of State Route 99 in Seattle will be closed this weekend while crews inspect and reinforce the Alaskan Way Viaduct and upgrade expansion joints on the Aurora Bridge.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Aurora Bridge earthquake work wraps up with final October push</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 02 Oct 2012 01:34:14 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/01_sr99aurorabridgework.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/01_sr99aurorabridgework.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – With steel and concrete work finished and repairs to two specially designed expansion joints nearly done, the State Route 99 George Washington Memorial Bridge (Aurora Bridge) is now better prepared to withstand an earthquake than it was a year ago.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>First citations mailed to drivers caught speeding in I-90 work zone</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 02 Oct 2012 01:15:52 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/01_workzone_speed_citations.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/01_workzone_speed_citations.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews wrap up culvert replacements on US 2 near Snohomish</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 01 Oct 2012 23:43:43 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/01_US2culvertworkdone.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/10/01_US2culvertworkdone.htm</guid>
      <description>After two months of weekend closures on US 2 near Snohomish, crews this morning finished replacing the last of five failing culverts under the highway and reopened westbound US 2 at 12:15 a.m. Monday, Oct. 1. The highway had been closed since 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28, between State Route 9 and 20th Street Southeast/State Route 204.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New tool opens door to transportation-related jobs for small businesses</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 29 Sep 2012 00:06:12 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/SmallBusinessProgram.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/SmallBusinessProgram.htm</guid>
      <description>New tool opens door to transportation-related jobs for small businesses</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>More SR 520 pontoons under construction in Aberdeen</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 27 Sep 2012 23:54:18 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/26_SR520_PontoonUpdate.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/26_SR520_PontoonUpdate.htm</guid>
      <description>ABERDEEN – The next batch of pontoons for the new State Route 520 bridge are currently under construction in Aberdeen, and improved design and construction techniques will be used to eliminate concrete spalling and reduce cracking. 


During the first round of pontoon construction, crews encountered spalling (chipped concrete) and cracking in pontoon end walls. Crews repaired the spalling by adding reinforcing steel and replacing concrete and fixed the cracks by injecting epoxy.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Final corner complete on Federal Way triangle project</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 26 Sep 2012 03:23:36 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/26_i-5newflyoverramps.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/26_i-5newflyoverramps.htm</guid>
      <description>Progress takes shape as crews open the third corner of the Federal Way triangle project. The new ramp from State Route 18 to State Route 161 opens by noon Wednesday, Sept. 26. The ramp gives drivers a new, less-congested option from the Kent valley to Federal Way.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT holds contractor to fire-safety requirements at Taylor Bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 22 Sep 2012 00:18:52 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/NoticetoContactorTaylorBridge.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/NoticetoContactorTaylorBridge.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT holds contractor to fire-safety requirements at Taylor Bridge</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Tacoma Narrows Bridges appear melted in new Web maps</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 21 Sep 2012 05:13:42 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/20_bridgesappearmelted.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/20_bridgesappearmelted.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Last call for summer in Seattle means heavy traffic</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 21 Sep 2012 04:07:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/i5_20busyweekend.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/i5_20busyweekend.htm</guid>
      <description>It’s not quite the perfect storm, but a combination of weekend construction closures and special events could make driving into Seattle a challenge. The State Route 520 bridge and the Interstate 5 on- and off-ramps at Mercer Street will be closed all weekend as tens of thousands of fans make their way to watch the Sounders push to the playoffs and the Mariners make their last weekend homestand of the season.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Weekend-long SR 520 closure could slow traffic Sept. 21-24</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 20 Sep 2012 03:50:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/19_SR520WeekendClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/19_SR520WeekendClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>A busy weekend around the region combined with a full closure of the State Route 520 floating bridge means that drivers need to plan ahead and expect delays on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. In the traffic and event mix this weekend are Seattle Mariners and Sounders games in SODO, a gymnastics show at Key Arena and the St. Demetrios Greek Festival in the Montlake neighborhood.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 99 tunnel tolling committee meets Wednesday</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 19 Sep 2012 04:14:38 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/18_sr99-toll-committee.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/18_sr99-toll-committee.htm</guid>
      <description>The State Route 99 Tunnel Project’s Advisory Committee on Tolling and Traffic Management will meet tomorrow, Sept. 19, to review preliminary toll revenue modeling results, based on toll scenarios discussed in April, and learn how toll revenue would be used. Additional toll scenarios will be tested later this year.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Vehicle registration holds placed for some toll violators</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 18 Sep 2012 03:15:51 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/17_vehicleholdsplacedforunpaidtolls.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/17_vehicleholdsplacedforunpaidtolls.htm</guid>
      <description>Vehicle registration holds placed for some toll violators</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New State Route 99 opens south of Seattle’s stadiums</title>
      <pubDate>Sun, 16 Sep 2012 06:57:01 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/15_H2Kopens.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/15_H2Kopens.htm</guid>
      <description>From Starbucks to Safeco Field, drivers are traveling on a new State Route 99 – an entire year earlier than expected.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Public invited to comment on SR 520 Seattle design report</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 15 Sep 2012 00:14:24 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/13_publiccomment520designreport.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/13_publiccomment520designreport.htm</guid>
      <description>Bicyclists, pedestrians, transit riders, drivers and neighbors of the State Route 520 corridor are invited to view and comment on a report that details bridge types, lids and community connections from Interstate 5 to the floating bridge. The comment period begins today and ends Oct. 5.

The draft report is a result of the Seattle Community Design Process, a public design effort that began in August 2011 and included seven public open houses attended by a total of more than 1,100 people. The r</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews to replace broken concrete panels on I-5 in Bellingham starting Sept. 18</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 13 Sep 2012 23:28:47 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/13_i5crackedconcretepanels.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/13_i5crackedconcretepanels.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>US 101 Simpson Avenue bridge repairs done in record time</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 13 Sep 2012 09:41:50 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/12_US101SimpsonAveBridgeReopens.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/12_US101SimpsonAveBridgeReopens.htm</guid>
      <description>US 101 Simpson Avenue bridge repairs done in record time</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Overnight SR 520 closure scheduled for Sept. 13</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 12 Sep 2012 22:36:30 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/12_SR520NightClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/12_SR520NightClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>Construction crews will close both directions of SR 520 from 11 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 13, until 5 a.m. Friday, Sept. 14, from Montlake Boulevard in Seattle to I-405 in Bellevue.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Weekend SR 99 closure to switch traffic to new lanes through SODO</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 11 Sep 2012 23:18:35 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/11_H2Kclosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/11_H2Kclosure.htm</guid>
      <description>This weekend the Washington State Department of Transportation will close another chapter in the replacement of the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Automated speed-enforcement cameras coming to Snoqualmie Pass</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 11 Sep 2012 03:50:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/10_workzone_speed_camera_I90.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/10_workzone_speed_camera_I90.htm</guid>
      <description>Automated speed-enforcement cameras coming to Snoqualmie Pass</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Brighter, tougher lane stripes coming to a highway near you</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 08 Sep 2012 00:27:34 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/7_statewidedurablestriping.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/7_statewidedurablestriping.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>It’s okay to stare - WSDOT is preparing to make tunneling history</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 05 Sep 2012 02:47:03 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/04_SR99-ok-to-stare.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/09/04_SR99-ok-to-stare.htm</guid>
      <description>Usually, it’s not polite to stare, but in this case it’s history in the making, so it’s encouraged. Crews are preparing right now for the world’s largest-diameter tunnel-boring machine to arrive in 2013. The Washington State Department of Transportation is inviting the public to gaze with wonder at the massive work zone for the State Route 99 tunnel project.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New hours for I-90 express lanes reflect efficiency</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 01 Sep 2012 02:08:56 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/31_I90newexpresslanehours.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/31_I90newexpresslanehours.htm</guid>
      <description>Smarter highways doesn’t always mean computers; in this case, it’s people. With a small adjustment to the Interstate 90 express-lane schedule, maintenance crews from the Washington State Department of Transportation will be able to focus more time and attention to high-tech systems that keep area highways moving.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>More drivers saw red in 2011 than in 2009</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 28 Aug 2012 01:30:02 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/2012+Congestion+Report.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/2012+Congestion+Report.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Small team of claims investigators saves taxpayers millions</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 24 Aug 2012 23:32:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/24_InvSavesTaxpayersMillions.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/24_InvSavesTaxpayersMillions.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT unveils revamped Gray Notebook</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 22 Aug 2012 22:36:31 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/GNB46_1.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/GNB46_1.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Volunteers needed for annual state bicycle and pedestrian count</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 21 Aug 2012 23:49:16 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/21_stateBicyclePedestrianCount.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/21_stateBicyclePedestrianCount.htm</guid>
      <description></description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New ramp meters to ease congestion on I-5 in south King County</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 18 Aug 2012 01:56:46 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/I5_17Newrampmeters.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/I5_17Newrampmeters.htm</guid>
      <description>New ramp meters will help smooth traffic flow and ease congestion along eight miles of Interstate 5 between Tukwila and Federal Way.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>3 fish-friendly culverts installed, 1 bridge demolished during weekend work</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 13 Aug 2012 21:26:36 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/SR520_13Reopen.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/SR520_13Reopen.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews reopened State Route 520 and State Route 167 on time this morning after separate weekend-long closures. All lanes of SR 520 and SR 167 opened by 4:30 a.m., just in time for the morning commute.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Two weekend-long closures set for SR 9 near Clearview, Lake Stevens</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 10 Aug 2012 00:27:38 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/9_9WeekendConstructionClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/9_9WeekendConstructionClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>Near Clearview, crews working to widen a two-mile stretch of SR 9 need to close the highway from 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 10, to 2 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 12. Construction crews will close the SR 9/SR 92 intersection around the clock from 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 10, to 7:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 12,</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New website makes parking easier in Seattle’s waterfront and Pioneer Square neighborhoods</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 09 Aug 2012 23:29:15 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/9_seattle-parking.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/9_seattle-parking.htm</guid>
      <description>Parking just got easier in downtown Seattle’s Pioneer Square and waterfront neighborhoods thanks to www.DowntownSeattleParking.com – a new website featuring hours, rates and directions for nearby parking spaces. Designed to help drivers locate affordable, convenient parking, the Washington State Department of Transportation launched the site this week to encourage visitors to spend time in two of Seattle’s most popular neighborhoods during State Route 99 tunnel construction and other local work.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>First new SR 520 pontoon en route to Ballard locks</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 09 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/08_520PontoonEnRoute.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/08_520PontoonEnRoute.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – The first new State Route 520 bridge pontoon is on its way to Lake Washington. Crews began towing the pontoon from Grays Harbor at 9 a.m. Aug. 8 and expect to complete the journey to the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle on Saturday, Aug. 11. The pontoon is expected to enter the locks late Saturday night or early Sunday morning.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Construction to raise and widen SR 532 west of Stanwood begins next year</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 08 Aug 2012 23:41:13 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/08_sr532constructionstartsnextyear.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/08_sr532constructionstartsnextyear.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Major construction means heavy congestion in Puget Sound Aug. 10-13</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 08 Aug 2012 22:37:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/08_167WeekendConstructionClosures.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/08_167WeekendConstructionClosures.htm</guid>
      <description>It’s not carmageddon, but it is the biggest construction weekend Puget Sound has seen this summer. Drivers should plan and be prepared for total road closures in Renton, Seattle, Bellevue, Lake Stevens and Clearview in Snohomish County. The weekend mantra is: leave early then add an hour.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Eastbound US 2 near Snohomish closed Aug. 3-6</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 02 Aug 2012 04:22:52 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/01_US2culvertclosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/01_US2culvertclosure.htm</guid>
      <description>Construction high above and deep below US 2 in Snohomish means detours and delays for drivers this summer. Crews building a new overpass and replacing culverts under US 2 are preparing for the first of six weekend closures, starting this Friday, Aug. 3.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Tunnel-boring machine replica debuts at Milepost 31 in Seattle</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 02 Aug 2012 01:34:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/1_Tunnel-boring-machine-replica.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/08/1_Tunnel-boring-machine-replica.htm</guid>
      <description>The world’s largest-diameter, tunnel-boring machine will arrive in Seattle next year, but you don’t have to wait until then to check it out. A 10-foot-long, motorized model will be on display starting this week.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Washington transportation projects awarded federal grants</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 04 Aug 2012 03:50:12 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/2012FederalDiscretionaryGrants.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/2012FederalDiscretionaryGrants.htm</guid>
      <description>Washington transportation projects awarded federal grants</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Angels in the air mean traffic changes on the ground between Seattle and Bellevue</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 01 Aug 2012 00:35:12 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/31_I90ClosuresForSeafair2012.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/31_I90ClosuresForSeafair2012.htm</guid>
      <description>As Seafair heads into full swing with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels air shows, traffic from the Interstate 90 floating bridges will have to take alternate routes daily from Thursday, Aug. 2, to Sunday, Aug. 5, while the bridges are closed.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Mount Baker Highway paving begins in August east of Glacier</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 01 Aug 2012 00:20:54 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/31_sr542pavingbegins.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/31_sr542pavingbegins.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Rock blasting and daytime closures of SR 522 in Monroe start Monday</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 28 Jul 2012 00:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/27_SR522Blasting.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/27_SR522Blasting.htm</guid>
      <description>MONROE – Crews will begin moving mountains next week in an effort to make way for two new westbound lanes on State Route 522 in Monroe.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 pontoons to float out in Aberdeen July 30-31</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 27 Jul 2012 05:31:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/26_520Pontoons_in_Aberdeen.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/26_520Pontoons_in_Aberdeen.htm</guid>
      <description>ABERDEEN – Six massive concrete pontoons – some of the largest ever built in Washington – will float out from Aberdeen next week, a major step toward assembling a replacement State Route 520 floating bridge later this summer.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Federal judge upholds WSDOT’s SR 520 environmental analysis</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 26 Jul 2012 07:15:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/25_FederalRulingInWSDOT_Favor.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/25_FederalRulingInWSDOT_Favor.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Just two weeks after the case was argued in court, a federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit that sought to overturn the Washington State Department of Transportation’s environmental analysis of a new State Route 520 bridge.
U.S. District Court Judge Ricardo S. Martinez issued the ruling July 25, rejecting an effort by a group to force further analysis of alternative designs for improvements to the SR 520 corridor from Seattle to Medina.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Construction, Torchlight Run to close parts of SR 99 this weekend</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 Jul 2012 05:51:22 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/23_SR99Torchlight.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/23_SR99Torchlight.htm</guid>
      <description>This weekend’s Seafair fun combined with construction closures, including the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct, could mean traffic delays and downtown reroutes for Metro buses.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Drivers save time and money with automated I-5 express lanes</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 Jul 2012 03:27:43 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/23_AutomatedExpressLanes.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/23_AutomatedExpressLanes.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE - If time is money, then the Washington State Department of Transportation’s newly automated Interstate 5 express lanes in Seattle are certainly a good investment.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Second new flyover ramp opens at I-5/SR 18 interchange in Federal Way</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 Jul 2012 02:11:38 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/23_sr18i5secondflyover.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/23_sr18i5secondflyover.htm</guid>
      <description>FEDERAL WAY – One week after the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) opened a new direct connection between State Route 18 and Interstate 5 in Federal Way, a second ramp opened just before noon today. The new flyover ramp carries vehicles from eastbound SR 18 to northbound I-5.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews move mountains of snow to reopen Artist Point</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 Jul 2012 01:20:08 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/23_sr542artistpointopens.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/23_sr542artistpointopens.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>First SR 520 pontoons to float in Tacoma Monday</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 21 Jul 2012 02:28:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/20_sr520CTCpontoons.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/20_sr520CTCpontoons.htm</guid>
      <description>The first six concrete pontoons to support a replacement State Route 520 bridge are ready to float out of a construction facility in Tacoma starting Monday, July 23, marking a major milestone toward replacing the aging and vulnerable floating bridge.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Nighttime closures of southbound SR 99 for tunnel construction start this Sunday</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 19 Jul 2012 05:27:31 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/18_nightAWVclosures.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/18_nightAWVclosures.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Drivers traveling through downtown Seattle should prepare for nighttime closures of the southbound State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct. For the next several months, the closures will give crews the space they need to reinforce a two-block section of the viaduct that sits above the route of the future SR 99 tunnel.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New tools ease public reporting of access, ADA accommodation matters</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 19 Jul 2012 00:37:23 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/ADAreportingtools.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/ADAreportingtools.htm</guid>
      <description>New tools ease public reporting of access, ADA accommodation matters</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT reaches settlement with toll vendor ETC</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 18 Jul 2012 22:33:05 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/18_TollVendorSettlement.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/18_TollVendorSettlement.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>South-end viaduct replacement will wrap up one year early, on budget</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 17 Jul 2012 22:32:02 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/17_EarlyH2K.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/17_EarlyH2K.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 reopened after bridge inspection and construction</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 16 Jul 2012 21:06:57 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/16_SR520_Reopened.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/16_SR520_Reopened.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – The State Route 520 floating bridge reopened today, capping off a weekend of inspections, maintenance work and major construction.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New ramps at I-5 and SR 18 let drivers ‘fly over’ congestion</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 16 Jul 2012 20:53:58 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/16_SR18I5FlyoverRamps.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/16_SR18I5FlyoverRamps.htm</guid>
      <description>FEDERAL WAY – Sometimes the best way to avoid a traffic jam is to fly over it. That’s exactly what drivers will do in Federal Way once two new elevated ramps open between Interstate 5 and State Route 18.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Daytime lane closures planned July 17 on US 2 near Stevens Pass.</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 14 Jul 2012 05:34:12 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/13US2TuesdayRockfallDelays.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/13US2TuesdayRockfallDelays.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>View SR 520 designs at July 16 open house in Seattle</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Jul 2012 07:28:01 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/12_SR520_OpenHouse.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/12_SR520_OpenHouse.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Conceptual models of future lidded overpasses above State Route 520 in Seattle will be featured at an open house Monday, July 16, as the Washington State Department of Transportation continues designing elements along the planned six-lane corridor in Seattle.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Repair work starts July 23 on the US 395/SR20 Columbia River Bridge at Kettle Falls</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 11 Jul 2012 22:18:19 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/11_us395columbiariverbridge.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/11_us395columbiariverbridge.htm</guid>
      <description>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</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>It’s time for another weekend-long closure of the SR 520 bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 11 Jul 2012 05:30:54 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/10_520WeekendClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/10_520WeekendClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Get ready for another weekend of traffic congestion as crews close State Route 520 between Montlake Boulevard in Seattle and Interstate 405 in Bellevue for major highway construction and annual floating bridge maintenance.

The bridge and highway will be closed from 11 p.m. Friday, July 13, through 5 a.m. Monday, July 16. Traffic is expected to be heavier on alternate routes, especially I-90, as drivers head into Seattle for the Seattle-to-Portland bicycle ride, Mariners games, the m</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Annual event brings 10,000 bike riders to Western Washington roadways</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 11 Jul 2012 03:53:08 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/10_2012STPride.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/10_2012STPride.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Pavement repair set for I-5, Guide Meridian in Bellingham</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 07 Jul 2012 00:54:57 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/06_i5sr539pavinginbellingham.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/06_i5sr539pavinginbellingham.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-5 pavement-repair work north of Burlington back in action after winter break</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 06 Jul 2012 04:45:52 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/05_i5pavementrepairs.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/05_i5pavementrepairs.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Updated drawspan rules keep SR 520 traffic moving during rush hour</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 05 Jul 2012 20:26:38 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/05_SR520BridgeOpenings.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/07/05_SR520BridgeOpenings.htm</guid>
      <description>Drawspan openings on the State Route SR 520 floating bridge should cause fewer delays for rush-hour traffic with rules revised in response to commuters and traffic.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>State ferries on-time performance tops 98 percent</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 30 Jun 2012 03:54:47 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/WSF+SAO+GNB+45.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/WSF+SAO+GNB+45.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Weekend-long closure planned for SR 9/SR 92 intersection</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 28 Jun 2012 23:07:53 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/28_SR9SR92IntersectionClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/28_SR9SR92IntersectionClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews will completely close the SR 9/SR 92 intersection from 10 p.m. Friday, June 29, to 4:30 a.m. Monday, July 2, to excavate along the shoulders, grade, repave and restripe the highway and install new guardrail.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 99 tunnel tolling committee meets Wednesday</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 27 Jun 2012 04:13:16 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/26_SR99-tolling-meeting.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/26_SR99-tolling-meeting.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Longer I-5 on-ramp to reopen in Bellingham</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 27 Jun 2012 04:04:07 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/26_i5samishrampreopens.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/26_i5samishrampreopens.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>First SR 520 pontoon repairs successful, additional work needed</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 27 Jun 2012 03:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/26_sr520pontoonrepairsupdate.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/26_sr520pontoonrepairsupdate.htm</guid>
      <description>Repairs have been successfully implemented on four pontoons under construction in Aberdeen for the new State Route 520 floating bridge, the Washington State Department of Transportation said today. The repairs included removing concrete, adding reinforcing steel rebar and pouring new concrete on sections where the concrete cracked and flaked after post-tensioning, a process where high-tension steel tendons are stretched through the pontoon to strengthen it.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Newest and smallest ferry vessel named Sanpoil</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 26 Jun 2012 01:20:15 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/25_sr21kellerferryname.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/25_sr21kellerferryname.htm</guid>
      <description>Newest and smallest ferry vessel named Sanpoil
New Keller Ferry boat under construction</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Six months into SR 520 tolling: Traffic and revenue on track</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 23 Jun 2012 04:56:19 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/22_SixMonths520Tolls.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/22_SixMonths520Tolls.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Busy summer starts next week for SR 99 tunnel crews</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 23 Jun 2012 03:55:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/22_Busy-summer-on-SR99.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/22_Busy-summer-on-SR99.htm</guid>
      <description>Heading south on State Route 99 through downtown Seattle will be trickier than usual starting next week, as SR 99 tunnel crews dig into a busy week of short- and long-term closures.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Southbound I-5 reduced to one lane for paving north of Burlington</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:11:48 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/21_i5laneclosedforpaving.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/21_i5laneclosedforpaving.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Cantwell, Murray, McMorris Rodgers Announce $10 Million USDOT Grant for North Spokane Corridor</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 20 Jun 2012 04:34:07 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/19_10MillionUSDOTGrant_NSpokaneCor.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/19_10MillionUSDOTGrant_NSpokaneCor.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Weigh station innovations saving truckers time</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 18 Jun 2012 22:54:52 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/GrayNotebookWeighStations.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/GrayNotebookWeighStations.htm</guid>
      <description>Weigh station innovations saving truckers time</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Report: Freight haulers say congestion results in lost jobs</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 15 Jun 2012 23:46:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/15_Freight_Congestion_Report.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/15_Freight_Congestion_Report.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Community bids fond farewell to old SR 529 Ebey Slough Bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 15 Jun 2012 01:03:23 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/14_SR529EbeySloughFarewell.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/14_SR529EbeySloughFarewell.htm</guid>
      <description>Community bids fond farewell to old SR 529 Ebey Slough Bridge</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New culverts and Bickford overcrossing coming to US 2 near Snohomish</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 13 Jun 2012 23:10:56 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/13_US2Bickfordculverts.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/13_US2Bickfordculverts.htm</guid>
      <description>What’s the over/under on US 2? This summer, it’s $22.4 million. That’s the combined cost to build a new overcrossing at the Bickford Avenue intersection and to replace five failing culverts under the highway near Snohomish.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 design open house planned June 14 in Seattle</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 13 Jun 2012 01:31:30 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/12_SR520OpenHouse.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/12_SR520OpenHouse.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Public discussions continue as the Washington State Department of Transportation seeks feedback on design concepts for the future six-lane State Route 520 corridor in the Seattle area. At an open house Thursday, WSDOT staff will share updated concepts for SR 520 improvements near Interstate 5, and public feedback will help drive future design decisions.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 522 closed overnight in Monroe</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 12 Jun 2012 23:18:01 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/12_SR522overnightclosures.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/12_SR522overnightclosures.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers on State Route 522 near Monroe should plan for full closures of the highway Wednesday and Thursday night. Crews are continuing their preparations for rock-blasting work, now scheduled to begin in late June or early July.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Gov. Gregoire awards students' top prize in statewide transportation art and essay contest</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 12 Jun 2012 04:56:24 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/11_12+bridging+futures+2012.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/11_12+bridging+futures+2012.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>State funds available for freight rail projects that keep economy chugging with jobs, trade</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 12 Jun 2012 01:24:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/061012_freightrail.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/061012_freightrail.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Night and weekend closures next week for SR 99 tunnel work</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 09 Jun 2012 06:15:53 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/08_12_AWVclosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/08_12_AWVclosure.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers should expect a series of closures of the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct next week as crews continue to reinforce a two-block section of the structure located above the route of the future SR 99 tunnel.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Diplomas and dugouts: A busy weekend expected in Seattle</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 09 Jun 2012 00:34:48 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/08_SeattleBusyWeekend.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/08_SeattleBusyWeekend.htm</guid>
      <description>Families and fans will pack Seattle sports venues this weekend for graduation ceremonies and baseball games.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Roadway safety funding benefits 40 Washington cities</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 08 Jun 2012 01:54:23 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/2012CitySafety.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/2012CitySafety.htm</guid>
      <description>Roadway safety funding benefits 40 Washington cities</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>A boatload of dirt: Crews break ground on massive pit for SR 99 tunnel boring machine</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 07 Jun 2012 02:09:33 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/6_AWV-tbm-groundbreaking.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/6_AWV-tbm-groundbreaking.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT’s quarterly performance report shows Incident Response program making a difference</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 05 Jun 2012 06:51:56 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/0604_quarterlyperformance.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/0604_quarterlyperformance.htm</guid>
      <description>OLYMPIA – Timely response to highway collisions by Washington State Department of Transportation crews, State Patrol and emergency personnel translated into an estimated $10.7 million in savings for highway travelers so far this year. This is just one of the topics covered in the latest edition of the Gray Notebook – WSDOT’s quarterly performance repor</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 reopened after weekend construction</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 04 Jun 2012 18:27:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/04_SR520_Reopened.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/06/04_SR520_Reopened.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Another old overpass is history and State Route 520 has reopened after a busy weekend of demolition and construction to improve the corridor from Medina to Bellevue. Crews crunched down and recycled the old 92nd Avenue Northeast overpass to make room for a future lidded overpass, and installed the last 34 huge concrete girders needed for a similar lidded overpass at Evergreen Point Road.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Part of SR 9 intersection to close for roundabout construction near Arlington</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 01 Jun 2012 03:07:41 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/31_172ndclosesfortwomonths.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/31_172ndclosesfortwomonths.htm</guid>
      <description>Next week, construction will begin to consume the intersection of State Route 9 and 172nd Street NE south of Arlington. That means drivers face traffic shifts, detours and slowdowns for the next several months as crews build a roundabout to help reduce collisions at the intersection.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Tolls increase July 1 on Tacoma Narrows and SR 520 bridges</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 31 May 2012 00:01:03 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/30_tollsincreasejuly1.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/30_tollsincreasejuly1.htm</guid>
      <description>Tolls increase July 1, 2012 on Tacoma Narrows and SR 520 bridges</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>West Coast Electric Highway Expands to Washington, Now Extends to Canadian Border</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 30 May 2012 22:05:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/30_newevstations.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/30_newevstations.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Overpass demolition, girder setting to close SR 520 bridge June 1-4</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 30 May 2012 03:12:23 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/29_SR520_WeekendClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/29_SR520_WeekendClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Another major overpass above State Route 520 on the Eastside will be demolished this weekend, making way for highway improvements and a new lidded overpass at 92nd Avenue Northeast. Demolition crews will close the SR 520 floating bridge and highway between Seattle and Bellevue at 11 p.m. Friday, June 1. The weekend of work also includes installing the final 34 girders needed for the new Evergreen Point Road lidded overpass in Medina.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews lift Aurora Bridge for earthquake safety project</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 29 May 2012 23:47:51 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/29_SR99Auroraseismic.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/29_SR99Auroraseismic.htm</guid>
      <description>The Aurora Bridge seismic retrofit project reaches a milestone that measures less than an inch this week.  Crews will close both directions of SR 99 overnight Tuesday to jack up the structure ¾ of an inch and install new one ton bearings that will allow the bridge to gently sway during an earthquake.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New SR 522 bridge takes shape in Monroe</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 29 May 2012 23:41:24 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/29_SR522GirderSetting.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/29_SR522GirderSetting.htm</guid>
      <description>The first of four new bridges on State Route 522 in Monroe will take a giant step forward this week as crews set 15 girders over 164th Street Southeast. The new bridge will carry westbound SR 522 traffic when the project is complete in late 2014.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Chinook Pass opens in time for Memorial Day weekend</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 26 May 2012 02:45:58 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/Chinookreopening2012.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/Chinookreopening2012.htm</guid>
      <description>Chinook Pass reopened in time for Memorial Day weekend.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Washington No. 1 ‘Bicycle-Friendly State’ five years running</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 25 May 2012 23:21:34 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/WashingtonMostBikeFriendly.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/WashingtonMostBikeFriendly.htm</guid>
      <description>Washington No. 1 ‘Bicycle-Friendly State’ five years running</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-5 Samish Way ramp to remain closed another month in Bellingham</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 25 May 2012 04:26:03 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/24_i5rampclosureextended.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/24_i5rampclosureextended.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Secretary Hammond's statement regarding WSDOT's Drug and Alcohol Policy</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 24 May 2012 07:40:03 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/22_WSDOTDrugAlcoholPolicy.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/22_WSDOTDrugAlcoholPolicy.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT opens new Bellevue ramp ahead of schedule</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 23 May 2012 00:59:50 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/22_BellevueBraidsRampOpens.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/22_BellevueBraidsRampOpens.htm</guid>
      <description>BELLEVUE – Northbound Interstate-405 travelers exiting to State Route 520 on their way to Redmond will notice their drive got less crowded this week and did so much sooner than initially expected.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Single-direction closures of SR 520 overnight May 22, 23 and 30</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 22 May 2012 05:54:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/21_SR520NightDirectionalClosures.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/21_SR520NightDirectionalClosures.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Late-night drivers who cross Lake Washington should plan ahead for nighttime construction closures between Seattle and the Eastside on the State Route 520 bridge. Crews installing overhead utilities will close one direction of the highway at a time May 22, 23 and 30 between Montlake Boulevard in Seattle and 92nd Avenue Northeast on the Eastside.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Know before you go: long weekend could mean long waits</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 22 May 2012 04:11:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/Memorial_Day_2012.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/Memorial_Day_2012.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Repair work to delay float-out of SR 520 bridge pontoons</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 19 May 2012 01:09:16 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/18_SR520PontoonFloatoutDelay.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/18_SR520PontoonFloatoutDelay.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 design open house planned May 19 in Seattle</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 17 May 2012 05:49:05 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/16_SR520_OpenHousePortageBayBridge.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/16_SR520_OpenHousePortageBayBridge.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – The public can view conceptual designs for a new State Route 520 bridge across Portage Bay – including possible cable-stay options – at an open house Saturday, May 19. The meeting is the latest opportunity for the public to give feedback as the Washington State Department of Transportation refines designs for the corridor from I-5 to the floating bridge.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct to close this weekend, May 18-21</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 23:24:06 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/15_AWV-closed-5-18-21.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/15_AWV-closed-5-18-21.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 20 The North Cascades Highway reopened today at noon</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 11 May 2012 02:29:21 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/10SR20NCHReopens.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/10SR20NCHReopens.htm</guid>
      <description>SR 20, the North Cascades Highway reopend to traffic at noon, Thursday, May 10.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Badger Road roundabouts to be built next year</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 04 May 2012 03:52:45 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/03_sr546communitymeeting.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/03_sr546communitymeeting.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>A gift for the mom who has everything: free parking</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 04 May 2012 01:38:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/03_SR99Waterfront-parking.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/03_SR99Waterfront-parking.htm</guid>
      <description>Great food, interesting shops, fun attractions and picturesque views. If those aren’t good enough reasons to visit Seattle’s waterfront on Mother’s Day, here’s one more – you can park there for free.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 167 HOT Lanes celebrate four-year anniversary</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 04 May 2012 00:57:35 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/03_167HOTLanesFourthAnniversary.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/03_167HOTLanesFourthAnniversary.htm</guid>
      <description>Fewer delays, faster trips and increasing revenue are cause for celebration as the Washington State Department of Transportation marks the four-year anniversary of the State Route 167 HOT Lanes project.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Surplus properties go on the auction block</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 02 May 2012 23:51:52 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/SurplusPropertiesSpring2012.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/05/SurplusPropertiesSpring2012.htm</guid>
      <description>Surplus properties go on the auction block</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 99 tunnel construction brings big changes to Seattle’s downtown waterfront</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 May 2012 06:02:46 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/30_waterfrontchanges.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/30_waterfrontchanges.htm</guid>
      <description>It’s not yet time for the downtown waterfront’s big makeover, but it is make-room time for the State Route 99 Tunnel project. Crews clearing space for tunnel construction are preparing to reroute six blocks of waterfront traffic from Alaskan Way to a newly improved road beneath the Alaskan Way Viaduct.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New electronic information signs go live on I-90 near Bellevue</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 May 2012 04:59:31 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/30_NewI90ATMSigns.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/30_NewI90ATMSigns.htm</guid>
      <description>BELLEVUE – Interstate 90 drivers heading eastbound near Bellevue will have more real-time information available on Tuesday, May 1, when 36 new electronic highway signs go live in time for the morning commute.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 reopened after weekend construction</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 30 Apr 2012 18:26:55 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/30_SR520_ReopenedAfterWeekendConstruction.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/30_SR520_ReopenedAfterWeekendConstruction.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Another batch of girders is in place over State Route 520 and the highway has reopened after a busy weekend of construction.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Roundabout construction begins on SR 9 near Arlington</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 28 Apr 2012 03:13:20 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/27_SR9SR531RoundaboutConstruction.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/27_SR9SR531RoundaboutConstruction.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews kick off construction next week on a new roundabout at the intersection of State Route 9 and SR 531 near Arlington.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Two more northbound lanes coming to Sumas border crossing</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/25_sr9twonewlanes.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/25_sr9twonewlanes.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New drawspan rules keep SR 520 peak traffic flowing</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:37:51 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/25_NewSR520DrawspanOperations.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/25_NewSR520DrawspanOperations.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Under new rules published today, the State Route 520 floating bridge drawspan will not open to boats from 6-9 a.m. or 4-7 p.m. on weekdays – a move that keeps peak commute traffic flowing between Seattle and the Eastside.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 bridge, highway closing April 27-30 for construction</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 25 Apr 2012 05:35:57 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/24_SR520_WeekendClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/24_SR520_WeekendClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>Cranes will hoist 42 huge concrete girders into position over State Route 520 this weekend, part of a project to build lidded overpasses and widen the highway to six laneson the Eastside. To do the latest round of work, crews will close the highway and floating bridge between Seattle and Bellevue at 11 p.m. Friday, April 27.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Prepare for daytime closures of SR 522 in Monroe this week</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:30:10 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/23_SR522closures.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/23_SR522closures.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers on State Route 522 near Monroe should plan for full closures of the highway Wednesday and Thursday morning. Crews widening SR 522 between the Snohomish River Bridge and US 2 are removing trees in preparation for rock blasting in May.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Open house planned April 24 for roundabouts on SR 92</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 20 Apr 2012 23:30:31 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/20_SR92RoundaboutMeeting.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/20_SR92RoundaboutMeeting.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT will host an open house from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 24, to discuss roundabouts being built on SR 92 in Lake Stevens.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Show your support for Washington’s road workers – Go Orange for Work Zone Safety</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 19 Apr 2012 03:08:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/18_2012_workzone_safety.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/18_2012_workzone_safety.htm</guid>
      <description>OLYMPIA – It’s simple really: See orange, slow down.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 99 tunnel tolling committee meets today</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 17 Apr 2012 22:38:29 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/17_SR99-tolling-committee.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/17_SR99-tolling-committee.htm</guid>
      <description>The SR 99 Tunnel Project’s Advisory Committee on Tolling and Traffic Management meets today to discuss ways to minimize diversion from the SR 99 tunnel and to review potential toll scenarios that will be analyzed this year.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>US 2 roundabout opens to traffic in Sultan</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:44:48 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/041212_US2_RiceRoadRoundabout.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/041212_US2_RiceRoadRoundabout.htm</guid>
      <description>New roundabout opens ahead of schedule on US 2 at Rice Road.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Plan for full weekend closure of SR 529 in Marysville</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Apr 2012 01:00:07 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/12_SR529trafficshift.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/12_SR529trafficshift.htm</guid>
      <description>Commuters on State Route 529 should bid their farewells to the Ebey Slough Bridge when they cross it on Friday, before the 87-year-old bridge is retired from service and crews ready the adjacent new bridge to carry Monday morning traffic.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Southbound Aurora Avenue North back to normal, Broad Street ramp to close for 60 days</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 12 Apr 2012 22:47:25 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/12_BroadStreet.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/12_BroadStreet.htm</guid>
      <description>One lane opens, but the Broad Street exit ramp closes. That's what State Route 99 drivers can expect tonight, April 12, when crews reopen the far right lane of southbound Aurora Avenue North between Republican and John streets. The lane has been closed since early March for utility relocation related to the SR 99 tunnel project.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 design open house in Seattle April 12</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 11 Apr 2012 02:17:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/10_SR520_SeattleDesignOpenHouse.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/10_SR520_SeattleDesignOpenHouse.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – The Washington State Department of Transportation is leading public discussions to refine designs for the future six-lane State Route 520 corridor in the Seattle area. WSDOT staff will share updated design options at an interactive open house from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 12, at the Museum of History &amp; Industry, 2700 24th Ave. E., Seattle.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT begins new toll enforcement program</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Apr 2012 23:05:53 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/10_WSDOTbeginsnewtollenforcementprogram.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/10_WSDOTbeginsnewtollenforcementprogram.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT begins new toll enforcement program</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 bridge construction brings changes on Lake Washington</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 06 Apr 2012 04:19:04 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/05_SR520_Construction_Drawspan.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/05_SR520_Construction_Drawspan.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Construction crews are removing trees in Medina and prepping to install anchors in Lake Washington for a new State Route 520 floating bridge. With more work in the water, drivers on SR 520 could see occasional intermittent closures of the highway for boat traffic.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>All US 2 traffic funneled into one lane next week in Sultan, Index</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 06 Apr 2012 03:30:17 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/04_US2RiceAndersonConstruction.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/04_US2RiceAndersonConstruction.htm</guid>
      <description>Major construction is expected to cause traffic delays on US 2 starting Sunday evening, April 8. Drivers headed east or west between Sultan and Index should plan extra travel time once crews funnel all traffic on the two-lane highway into one lane.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT and ODOT work toward goal of integrated passenger rail corridor between Eugene and B.C.</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 05 Apr 2012 04:30:22 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/4_wa_or_integratedcorridor.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/4_wa_or_integratedcorridor.htm</guid>
      <description>Washington and Oregon are creating a new partnership and will develop a plan for managing passenger-rail service between Eugene, Ore., and Vancouver, B.C., as one continuous rail corridor rather than two separate state operations. Transportation officials for each state signed an agreement today as another step toward offering faster, more frequent Amtrak Cascades service.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct to close this weekend, April 6-9</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 04 Apr 2012 05:50:38 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/3_viaductweekend.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/3_viaductweekend.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews will close the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct this weekend to reinforce a two-block section of the structure located above the path of the future SR 99 tunnel.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Construction resumes on I-90 east of Snoqualmie Pass</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 03 Apr 2012 02:03:46 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/2_ConstructionresumesonI-90.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/04/2_ConstructionresumesonI-90.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New cameras, ramp meters help commuters between Lacey and Tacoma</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 31 Mar 2012 01:01:06 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/SouthSoundrampmeterupdate.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/SouthSoundrampmeterupdate.htm</guid>
      <description>NISQUALLY – By tweet and email, motorists gave a resounding “Hooray!” when seven new cameras on Interstate 5 between Lacey and Joint Base Lewis-McChord went online earlier this month.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Federal funds sought for emergency road repairs</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 30 Mar 2012 02:42:49 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/29_emergency_landslide_fix.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/29_emergency_landslide_fix.htm</guid>
      <description>OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Transportation is applying for emergency federal funds to repair highways in Mason and Clark counties damaged by landslides.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>US 2 reduced to one lane for five days next week in Sultan</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 29 Mar 2012 22:34:57 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/032912_US2_RiceRoadclosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/032912_US2_RiceRoadclosure.htm</guid>
      <description>US 2 at Rice Road reduced to one lane April 8-13</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Grant funding available for community projects that improve conditions for bicycling, walking</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 28 Mar 2012 03:47:25 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/BikePedGrants2012.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/BikePedGrants2012.htm</guid>
      <description>Grant funding available for community projects that improve conditions for bicycling, walking</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 floating bridge construction to begin on Lake Washington</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 27 Mar 2012 03:26:36 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/520BridgeDesignsConstruction.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/520BridgeDesignsConstruction.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Replacement of the world’s longest floating bridge will begin visibly on Lake Washington this week as construction crews move barges and heavy equipment into position north of the aging State Route 520 bridge.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>North Cascades Highway clearing starts March 26</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 23 Mar 2012 06:36:17 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/22SR20NCHReopenStart.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/22SR20NCHReopenStart.htm</guid>
      <description>Reopening of the North Cascades Highway starts Mar. 26.  Despite another La Nina winter, crews are optimistic SR 20 could reopen by May.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 open houses March 27 and 28</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 23 Mar 2012 05:56:47 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/22_SR520_OpenHouses.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/22_SR520_OpenHouses.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Construction on a new State Route 520 floating bridge is just around the corner. Interested drivers and residents can learn about work planned this spring and updated roadway designs at two open houses next week.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New cameras to line I-5 corridor from Bellingham to Blaine</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 23 Mar 2012 03:15:33 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/22_i5newtrafficcameras.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/22_i5newtrafficcameras.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 toll rates to increase 2.5 percent in July</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 22 Mar 2012 09:10:43 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/21SR520TollRates.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/21SR520TollRates.htm</guid>
      <description>Toll rates on the State Route 520 floating bridge will increase 2.5 percent in July – 9 cents on the peak rate of $3.50 and 3 cents on the lowest rate of $1.10 – as part of a planned, small annual increase through 2016 outlined in the program’s financial plan.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Studded tire deadline moved to April 16</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 22 Mar 2012 05:12:19 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/21_studded_tire_extension.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/21_studded_tire_extension.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers have an extra two weeks to remove their studded tires this year.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct to close for two of next three weekends</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 21 Mar 2012 07:04:20 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/20_AWVclosures.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/20_AWVclosures.htm</guid>
      <description>Crews will close the State Route 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct for two of the next three weekends to inspect the structure and reinforce a two-block section located above the path of the future SR 99 tunnel.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>State’s TIGER IV applications support increased mobility, travel choices and international trade</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 21 Mar 2012 03:12:19 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/2012TIGER4Grants.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/2012TIGER4Grants.htm</guid>
      <description>State’s TIGER IV applications support increased mobility, travel choices and international trade</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-5 ramp to close for construction in Bellingham</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:37:08 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/20_i5samishrampclosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/20_i5samishrampclosure.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Federal Railroad Administration, WSDOT and Seattle kick off next phase of King Street Station restoration</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 16 Mar 2012 03:34:39 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/15_kssrestoration.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/15_kssrestoration.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Not Good to Go! yet? Your toll bill is in the mail</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 15 Mar 2012 23:36:11 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/15_CheckMailForTollBills.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/15_CheckMailForTollBills.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 bridge, highway reopened after construction, overpass demolition</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 12 Mar 2012 18:10:11 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/12_SR520Reopened.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/12_SR520Reopened.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – The State Route 520 floating bridge reopened this morning after crews worked through the weekend to demolish the old Evergreen Point Road overpass in Medina and install major stormwater drainage pipes beneath the highway.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Emergency repairs complete on SR 520 floating bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Sun, 11 Mar 2012 09:25:36 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/10_SR520EmergencyRepairsComplete.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/10_SR520EmergencyRepairsComplete.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Emergency underwater repairs to a second damaged State Route 520 floating bridge cable connection found on Friday were complete by this afternoon.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Emergency repairs continue on SR 520 floating bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 10 Mar 2012 10:18:15 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/09_SR520_RepairContinues.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/09_SR520_RepairContinues.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Emergency underwater repairs will continue Saturday, March 10, as divers replace a second damaged State Route 520 floating bridge cable connection found on Friday.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Emergency repairs required for SR 520 floating bridge anchor cable connection</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 09 Mar 2012 10:52:27 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/08_SR520_EmergencyRepair.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/08_SR520_EmergencyRepair.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Emergency repairs will be made to a State Route 520 floating bridge cable connection after divers discovered damage and corrosion during a routine inspection Thursday, March 8.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews push through deep snow to clear Cayuse Pass</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 09 Mar 2012 07:19:34 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/08_CayusePassClearingBegins2012.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/08_CayusePassClearingBegins2012.htm</guid>
      <description>MOUNT RAINIER – With snow blowers and a bulldozer working together, the annual State Route 410 clearing effort is under way.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Overpass demolition to close SR 520 bridge, highway</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Mar 2012 09:24:38 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/06_SR520ClosingMarch9to12.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/03/06_SR520ClosingMarch9to12.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Demolition crews are gearing up to take down the old Evergreen Point Road overpass above State Route 520 in Medina, which requires closing the highway and floating bridge between Seattle and Bellevue this weekend (March 9 to March 12.)</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Long-term lane closure coming to southbound SR 99/Aurora Avenue North</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 01 Mar 2012 06:37:37 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/29_SR99_lane_closure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/29_SR99_lane_closure.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers face increased congestion for the next six weeks on southbound State Route 99/Aurora Avenue North approaching downtown Seattle. Anticipated backups begin March 6 when crews building the SR 99 tunnel narrow southbound Aurora from three lanes to two between Republican and John streets, just north of the Battery Street Tunnel.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Procession honoring fallen WSP Trooper Thursday</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 01 Mar 2012 06:26:22 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/SR3_FuneralProcession.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/SR3_FuneralProcession.htm</guid>
      <description>Procession honoring fallen WSP Trooper Thursday</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 99 tunnel tolling committee meets Wednesday</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 29 Feb 2012 05:53:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/28_SR99_toll_committee.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/28_SR99_toll_committee.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 weekend construction complete</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 27 Feb 2012 18:42:30 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/27_SR520ConstructionReopened.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/27_SR520ConstructionReopened.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – The cranes are gone and traffic is back on State Route 520 this morning after a busy weekend of construction. Crews installed concrete girders and deck panels for lidded overpasses that will reconnect communities as part of an improved six-lane highway.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Nighttime closures on I-5 in Federal Way wrap up this weekend</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 25 Feb 2012 03:28:13 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/24_I5SR18closure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/24_I5SR18closure.htm</guid>
      <description>Nighttime closures on I-5 in Federal Way wrap up this weekend</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Construction closes SR 520 bridge, highway Feb. 24-27</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:30:10 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/_21_SR520WeekendClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/_21_SR520WeekendClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Crews will install 40 massive concrete girders this weekend to support future lids and overpasses above State Route 520 on the Eastside, a challenging amount of work that requires closing the floating bridge and highway between Seattle and Bellevue.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Expert panel confirms viaduct replacement on schedule, on budget</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 22 Feb 2012 02:52:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/21_ViaductReplacement.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/21_ViaductReplacement.htm</guid>
      <description>Expert panel confirms viaduct replacement on schedule, on budget</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New bridge girders installed over I-5 in Federal Way</title>
      <pubDate>Sun, 12 Feb 2012 23:17:06 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/12_TriangleGirders.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/12_TriangleGirders.htm</guid>
      <description>New bridge girders installed over I-5 in Federal Way</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Nighttime I-5 closures in Federal Way begin this weekend</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 11 Feb 2012 07:51:17 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/10_I5ClosureFedWayWeekend.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/10_I5ClosureFedWayWeekend.htm</guid>
      <description>FEDERAL WAY– Drivers should plan for a complete closure of southbound Interstate 5 at SR 18 in Federal Way this Friday and Saturday night.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New WSDOT cameras, hardware showcase 16 miles of I-5 in north Snohomish County</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 09 Feb 2012 06:58:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/08_I5NewCamerasOnline.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/02/08_I5NewCamerasOnline.htm</guid>
      <description>New cameras on I-5 show 16 miles of traffic and road condition information to drivers.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Statewide meetings kick off disparity study</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 02 Feb 2012 07:03:31 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/EqualOpportunityDisparityStudy.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/EqualOpportunityDisparityStudy.htm</guid>
      <description>Statewide meetings kick off disparity study</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT identifies SR 520 toll billing issue</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 28 Jan 2012 07:43:05 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/27_520billing.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/27_520billing.htm</guid>
      <description>The Washington State Department of Transportation is investigating State Route 520 pass reader errors that may have caused incorrect charges on Good To Go! customer accounts. Toll system engineers installed a fix and the issue does not affect drivers who are billed through Pay By Mail. The toll equipment is still processing transactions and collecting tolls while engineers continue to investigate.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT seeking projects for the Safe Routes to School Program</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 26 Jan 2012 06:09:44 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/2012SafeRoutesToSchool.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/2012SafeRoutesToSchool.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT seeking projects for the Safe Routes to School Program</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 99 tunnel tolling committee meets Wednesday</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:03:10 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/24_sr99-tolling-committee.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/24_sr99-tolling-committee.htm</guid>
      <description>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 guiding principles for evaluating and prioritizing future recommendations and discuss the basics of finance and traffic modeling.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>State Highway crews slowly reopen roads across Puget Sound</title>
      <pubDate>Sun, 22 Jan 2012 05:20:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/21_PugetSoundHighwaysOpening.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/21_PugetSoundHighwaysOpening.htm</guid>
      <description>Washington State highway crews continue to get roads back in good shape after seven straight days of snow, ice, sleet, wind and rain.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Freezing temperatures continue overnight, falling trees keep roads closed in central Puget Sound tonight</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 20 Jan 2012 14:05:11 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_SnowResponse9pm.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_SnowResponse9pm.htm</guid>
      <description>The snow and ice are moving out of the Puget Sound and the debris left behind is the story now. Maintenance crews for the Washington State Department of Transportation are busy clearing roads of slush and snow tonight.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT and WSP face challenging circumstances as they work to keep roadways open, passable</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:19:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_WSDOTWorkerInjuries.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_WSDOTWorkerInjuries.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Road crews continue clearing roads of snow and storm debris</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:13:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_icestorm_update2.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_icestorm_update2.htm</guid>
      <description>OLYMPIA – Commutes will remain difficult through the night and into Friday as this winter storm continues to pack a punch.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Entire state feeling impact from ice storm</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 20 Jan 2012 02:35:39 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_icestorm_update.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_icestorm_update.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Ice storm impacting travel; trees down on some roadways</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 19 Jan 2012 23:24:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_commute_icestorm.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/19_commute_icestorm.htm</guid>
      <description>OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Transportation today urged drivers to use extreme caution because of ice on roadways from freezing rain.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Roadway warning from WSDOT: Watch for ice</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:25:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/18_IceWarning.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/18_IceWarning.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Changes ahead for I-90 Express Lanes</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:58:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/18_80thRampClosure.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/18_80thRampClosure.htm</guid>
      <description>The Interstate 90 Express Lanes access ramp at 80th Avenue Southeast will close for up to four weeks beginning Monday, Jan. 23, before reopening to the outer roadway of eastbound I-90. 
Closing the ramp on Mercer Island will affect bus riders, carpoolers and vanpoolers.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Severe weather could mean treacherous road conditions</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 18 Jan 2012 07:37:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/17_winter_storm_pm_report.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/17_winter_storm_pm_report.htm</guid>
      <description>Weather conditions tonight, tomorrow and into Thursday are shaping up to make roadway conditions potentially treacherous, the Washington State Department of Transportation said today.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Tolling working again on SR 520 after electrical system repairs</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:17:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/01_17520Electricfix.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/01_17520Electricfix.htm</guid>
      <description>The State Route 520 toll-collection system is operating again and collecting tolls just after 11 a.m. The system was off-line for about four-and-a-half hours Tuesday morning after crews had to shut it down for unplanned electrical system repairs.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Electrical problems prompt temporary shutdown of SR 520 toll equipment; bridge remains open to traffic</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 18 Jan 2012 02:46:04 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/01_17SR520electricshutdown.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/01_17SR520electricshutdown.htm</guid>
      <description>After a night working to address power issues, crews shut down the toll-collection system on the SR 520 Bridge about 6:30 a.m. today, Jan. 17. Repair crews hope to get the system operating within a couple of hours.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 weekend construction complete; highway remains closed as snow and ice removal continues</title>
      <pubDate>Mon, 16 Jan 2012 17:01:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/16_SR520WorkCompleteSnowRemovalContinues.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/16_SR520WorkCompleteSnowRemovalContinues.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Construction is complete for the weekend on State Route 520, however the highway and floating bridge remain closed from Montlake Boulevard in Seattle to I-405 in Bellevue while maintenance crews continue snow and ice removal. Mainline lanes and ramps on SR 520 are estimated to reopen by 5 a.m. Monday, Jan. 16, once snow and ice removal is complete.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Decision time: Stock up, slow down for weekend storm</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 14 Jan 2012 07:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/13_mlkjrweekendsnow.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/13_mlkjrweekendsnow.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>First toll bills sent to SR 520 Pay By Mail customers</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Jan 2012 04:50:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/12_First520TollBills.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/12_First520TollBills.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SR 520 bridge, highway to close this weekend for construction</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:09:05 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/10_SR520WeekendClosureJan13_16.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/10_SR520WeekendClosureJan13_16.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Major construction will kick into high gear this weekend (Jan. 13-16, 2012) on State Route 520 east of Lake Washington, and all lanes of the highway will close so crews can move in more than two million pounds of massive concrete girders for new lidded overpasses above the highway.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>More drivers are returning to the State Route 520 floating bridge, a week after tolls began.</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 07 Jan 2012 09:35:16 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/06_520TollingWeekLater.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/06_520TollingWeekLater.htm</guid>
      <description>More drivers are returning to the State Route 520 floating bridge, a week after tolls began.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT selects Flatiron Constructors Inc. for I-405 improvement project</title>
      <pubDate>Sat, 07 Jan 2012 06:49:08 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/405bellvuetolynnwood.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/405bellvuetolynnwood.htm</guid>
      <description>WSDOT selects Flatiron Constructors Inc. for $155.5 million I-405 Bellevue to Lynnwood improvement project</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Drivers tweak commute times for tolled SR 520 bridge</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:04:12 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/05_SR520_Driverstweakcommute.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/05_SR520_Driverstweakcommute.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers are navigating toward a new normal as they tweak their commute times and routes and get used to tolling on State Route 520.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Citizen advisory group to discuss Tacoma Narrows Bridge toll rates</title>
      <pubDate>Fri, 06 Jan 2012 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/01_05_TNB+Rates.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/01_05_TNB+Rates.htm</guid>
      <description>The Tacoma Narrows Bridge Citizen Advisory Committee will meet next week to begin discussing new toll rates for the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Faster travel on tolled SR 520 bridge; I-90 sees typical traffic</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 05 Jan 2012 07:01:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/04_TollingCommutePressRelease.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/04_TollingCommutePressRelease.htm</guid>
      <description>SEATTLE – Traffic patterns are shifting as drivers continue to adjust to tolls on the State Route 520 bridge, which consistently has faster speeds. Meanwhile, the morning commute on Interstate 90 started sooner, nearly 30 minutes earlier.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Alaskan Way South drivers rerouted under viaduct for tunnel construction</title>
      <pubDate>Thu, 05 Jan 2012 01:24:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/04_AlaskanWaySouthDetour.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/04_AlaskanWaySouthDetour.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers who use Alaskan Way South along Seattle’s waterfront can expect major changes beginning this week as crews make way for the SR 99 tunnel construction zone.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Drivers find faster evening commute on SR 520</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 04 Jan 2012 12:34:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/03_SR520FasterCommute.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/03_SR520FasterCommute.htm</guid>
      <description>Drivers found a faster evening commute across the newly-tolled State Route 520 bridge on Tuesday, Jan. 3. While more drivers chose alternate routes like Interstate 90 and SR 522, congestion was still fairly typical.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Tolling on 520: A new year, new commute</title>
      <pubDate>Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:28:08 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/03_sr520newyearnewcommute.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/03_sr520newyearnewcommute.htm</guid>
      <description>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.</description>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>WSDOT urges commuters to prepare for first post-holiday commute with SR 520 tolls</title>
      <pubDate>Tue, 03 Jan 2012 09:27:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <link>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/02_Day5tolling.htm</link>
      <guid>http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2012/01/02_Day5tolling.htm</guid>
      <description>As the holiday season closes, people head back to work and school tomorrow in full force. Commuters in Central Puget Sound can expect changes to their drive, as they continue to make adjustments triggered by the start of tolling on State Route 520 last Thursday.</description>
    </item>
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