Expect Busy Highways, Ferries During Labor Day Weekend Travel
Published: 2:21 PM Friday, September 4, 2026
By: Drew Dotson – drew.dotson@rentonreporter.com
Travelers should prepare for significant traffic delays over the upcoming Labor Day weekend. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) reports that congestion will increase on state highways and waterways. While most highway construction will be paused to help alleviate traffic, delays are still anticipated in high-traffic areas due to accidents and wildfires.
“We urge you to plan ahead, stay alert, and give yourselves extra time to get where you’re going,” WSDOT advises.
Key Congested Areas
WSDOT predicts the busiest travel times will occur between 9 AM and early afternoon on major routes, including:
- US 2 between Skykomish and Stevens Pass
- I-90 between North Bend and Cle Elum
- I-5 between Lacey and Tacoma
- I-5 between Bellingham and the Canadian border
For detailed predictions on traffic, visit the WSDOT website, which provides travel charts for these segments.
Bridge and On-Ramp Updates
The Revive I-5 project continues to impact traffic, reducing the Ship Canal Bridge to two lanes. Additionally, the Harvard Avenue on-ramp to northbound I-5 is closed until mid-October, and express lanes are operational only on the northbound side.
Ferry Travel
Washington State Ferries anticipates around 400,000 passengers using the ferries this weekend, marking the busiest summer since 2019. Saturday, Sept. 5 is foreseen as the peak travel day. To minimize waiting times, WSDOT suggests using their mobile app or checking the Washington State Ferries (WSF) website before heading to the terminal.
“Prepare for long lines and extended wait times,” WSDOT warns. To enhance efficiency, consider early morning or late-night sailings, or use public transit to walk or bike onto the ferry if possible.
Fire Safety Recommendations
WSDOT encourages drivers to help prevent roadside fires by:
- Not throwing lit cigarettes from vehicle windows.
- Ensuring towing chains do not drag or produce sparks.
- Avoiding parking on dry grass with hot exhaust systems.
Stay Informed
With fire danger remaining high across the state, travelers should stay alert for updates on active wildfires and potential road closures due to changing weather conditions. If you see a brush fire without emergency services nearby, report it by calling 911.
