Weekend Traffic Updates: Key Closures in Seattle
Getting to Montlake will be a challenge starting this weekend due to significant road closures.
Montlake Boulevard Off-Ramp Closure
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has planned a weeklong closure of the Montlake Boulevard off-ramp from eastbound SR 520, beginning Saturday, Sept. 12 at 4:30 p.m. and ending Saturday, Sept. 19 at 8 a.m. This closure is necessary as crews prepare for a traffic shift in early 2027, involving the removal of sections of the old Montlake Boulevard off-ramp.
- Access Impact: This closure will restrict access to the University of Washington and Laurelhurst neighborhood from downtown Seattle, increasing volume on the University Bridge and surrounding routes like Eastlake and Fuhrman avenues.
Other Key Closures
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I-5 Express Lanes Closure: To facilitate drainage improvements, the Express Lanes will be closed for two weekends:
- First closure: From 11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 to 5 a.m. Monday, Sept. 14.
- Second closure: From 11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 to 5 a.m. Monday, Oct. 5.
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Westbound I-90 Closure: All lanes of westbound I-90 between Mercer Island and Seattle will close from 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 to 6 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 12 for tunnel maintenance, which will also affect on-ramps during those hours.
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1st Ave. S Bridge Lane Closure: Expect lane closures for bridge inspections on Saturday, Sept. 12 and Sunday, Sept. 13, impacting traffic between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m. each day.
Alternative Routes Suggested
Travelers who wish to avoid tolls or need access to Montlake Boulevard are advised to utilize alternate routes during these closures.
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