March 2007
• This project was split into phases. We completed the fourth phase with a new southbound I-5 to eastbound 196th St. SW exit. We also realigned the southbound I-5 to westbound 196th St. SW exit.
• We are now designing two new ramps to separate merging traffic at the
196th Street interchange in Lynnwood.
• The
2005 Legislative Funding Package provides
$54 million to construct these new southbound ramps.
Overview
This project was broken down into five phases to lessen the effects to traffic, the environment and the surrounding community. The first phase began in November 1996. We now have only the final phase to complete, two new southbound ramps on Interstate 5 between the State Route 525/Interstate 405 interchange-ramp and the I-5/196th Street Southwest exit in Lynnwood.
Why is WSDOT
constructing this interchange?
High residential and retail traffic exiting at 196th St. SW caused severe backups onto southbound I-5. These traffic flow problems led to rear-end and sideswipe accidents.
The End Result
This project reduces driver delay and improves traffic flow off of I-5. Pedestrians and bicyclists will also have new sidewalks and bike lanes to use. This makes using alternate forms of transportation safer and more convenient.
Project Benefits
- Safety. Improved lighting and signals increase visibility and safety in the area. The new interchange helps cut down on rear-end collisions caused by vehicles backing up onto southbound I-5.
- Congestion relief. Improved traffic flow. The new exit allows motorists wishing to go eastbound on 196th St. to bypass the signal and merge with traffic crossing over I-5 to the busy shopping area east of the freeway. This decreases backups on I-5 which decreases drive time and improves safety.
- Environment. This project benefits the environment by providing better storage and treatment for rain water runoff, improving stream water quality for salmon and other wildlife.
What is the project timeline?
To lessen the effects to traffic, the environment and the surrounding community, we will complete this project in phases. So far, we have completed four out of five of the phases. We are currently planning and designing the project’s final phase. Here is what we completed so far and what remains to be done:
• Completed Phase A – We constructed 198th Street SW, a new thoroughfare from Poplar Way extending east to the intersection with 196th St. SW. This arterial continues as 28th Ave. W from the intersection with 196th St. SW and extends across I-5. This phase included a new structure across I-5.
• Completed Phase B1 – We realigned Poplar Way from 196th St. SW to a new intersection with 198th St. SW and constructed northbound on and off ramps to 196th St. SW.
• Completed Phase B2 – We constructed a grade separated connection between 200th St. SW and Alderwood Mall Blvd. on the west side of I-5 and a new 196th St. SW to southbound I-5 on-ramp.
• Completed Phase B3 – We constructed a new southbound I-5 to eastbound 196th St. SW exit and realigned the southbound I-5 to westbound 196th St. SW exit.
• Design Phase C – In 2010, we will begin constructing southbound ramps between SR 525/I-405 off-ramp and the 196th St. SW exit. These improvements will provide access to crossroads while eliminating weaving on the mainline. This will help drivers get onto and off the freeway faster, easier and safer.
The new southbound ramps will begin south of the SR 525/I-405 bridge at the Swamp Creek interchange, and end just south of the 196th St. SW interchange.
Currently, plans to construct a northbound collector-distributor just north of the 44th Avenue West overpass are unfunded.
Financial Information
The final phase of this project is funded through the following fund sources:
- 2005 Gas Tax (Partnership Funding) - $54,181,925
- Total Funding Available From All Sources - $54,181,925
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Project Engineer Sharif Shaklawun
WSDOT Design Project Office
PO Box 330310
Seattle, WA 98133-9710
Phone: (206) 440-4272
E-mail: shaklas@wsdot.wa.gov
or
Public Information Officer Travis Phelps
15700 Dayton Avenue North
PO Box 330310 MS: 103
Seattle, WA 98133-9710
Phone: (206) 440-4470
E-mail: PhelpsT@wsdot.wa.gov
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