Northbound I-5 in Southern Thurston County to experience significant traffic delays for the next 2 weeks due to road repairs

Commuters in southern Thurston County should prepare for delays and heavy traffic as the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) conducts daytime repairs on northbound Interstate 5 (I-5).

The maintenance work is scheduled on October 9-12 with work expected to go from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and another round on October 16-19 with work taking place from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Portions of northbound I-5 between Grand Mound and Scatter Creek Rest area will be closed on these dates, with northbound I-5 being reduced to one lane and expecting heavy congestion and backups in the affected area.

WSDOT planned the repairs during daytime hours between morning and afternoon commutes to enhance safety.

In response to the rising number of work zone crashes and unsafe driving behaviors, WSDOT urges all motorist to follow safety guidelines when passing through work zones.

• Motorists should observe posted speed limits when entering the work zones.
• Pay close attention to both workers directing traffic as well as surrounding vehicles to avoid accidents.
• Leave earlier than usual, plan trip ahead or use alternate routes to help minimize congestion.
• Combine trips or reschedule non-essential travel is recommended to avoid peak congestion hours.

Real-time traveller information is available through the WSDOT app and WSDOT Travel Center Map for those who wants to stay updated on traffic conditions.