We have dramatically changed and improved State Route 543 through Blaine, leading to the nation's fourth busiest commercial crossing on the U.S.-Canada border crossing.
While construction is not entirely complete, new lanes are opening that will relieve congestion and improve freight mobility to and from the border.
On Monday, Nov. 19, we opened new truck bypass lanes to route drivers directly to commercial inspection booths at the border. The new lanes separate trucks from cars and provide more room for trucks as they wait to cross the border.
On Wednesday, Nov. 21, we will open the new D Street overpass above SR 543. It will further relieve congestion and reconnect the community of Blaine. D Street has been closed for more than a year while crews built the new overpass and lowered the highway 25 feet.
Crews have transformed the SR 543 from a narrow and congested two-lane road into a wider, safer five-lane highway. Two lanes southbound, three lanes northbound, designated truck lanes and the new overpass will improve safety and relieve congestion.
Currently, both lanes are open southbound and two lanes are open northbound. For current and accurate lane information, visit the project page for updates.
Posted Monday, Nov. 19, 2007.