Seattle drivers heading north on Interstate 5 should brace for significant traffic disruptions over the next month, as major repair work reduces the Ship Canal Bridge to just two open lanes (24/7) through Friday, August 15.
This follows a full weekend shutdown of the northbound lanes between downtown and the University District. Now, only the right two lanes remain open, while the left lanes are closed for critical structural work. Speed limits across the bridge are also reduced to 50 mph during the project.
“This bridge is over 60 years old and carries more than 240,000 vehicles each day—it’s clearly showing its age,” said Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Secretary Julie Meredith during a press briefing Friday.
The current phase focuses on replacing deteriorating expansion joints, repairing deck damage, improving drainage, and resurfacing the bridge. WSDOT notes that since 2019, crews have performed over 200 emergency fixes—an unsustainable pace that has prompted the need for long-term preservation.
What’s Next:
After the four-week lane squeeze ends, drivers should prepare for another full weekend closure of northbound I-5—from I-90 to NE 45th Street—between Friday night, August 15, and early Monday, August 18, as workers dismantle the construction zone.
To help maintain flow during this stretch of reduced capacity, northbound express lanes will operate continuously in the northbound direction.
Downtown Detours During August Closure:
When northbound lanes shut down again in mid-August, travelers heading into downtown Seattle will need to use alternate exits such as Edgar Martinez Drive, Dearborn, James, or Madison Street. Other northbound off-ramps into downtown will be blocked. Those traveling farther north should stick to express lanes or consider alternate routes.
More Work Ahead in 2026 and 2027:
This summer’s disruptions are just the beginning. WSDOT is planning additional northbound lane reductions in 2026—though all lanes will remain open during the FIFA World Cup. In 2027, the focus will shift to the southbound lanes, which will also see extended closures and multi-weekend directional shutdowns.
“The Ship Canal Bridge isn’t just part of I-5,” said Meredith. “It’s a vital link for the entire Pacific Northwest, supporting commuters, freight, and our regional economy.”
Stay tuned to TheSeattleToday.com for traffic updates and alternate route planning as this critical infrastructure project progresses.
