If you’re traveling on Interstate 5 near Joint Base Lewis-McChord, be prepared for overnight delays as crews work on a major construction project. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has scheduled lane reductions on both northbound and southbound I-5 this weekend, April 11-12.
During these closures, workers will be installing bridge girders over the highway, requiring a full closure of the Steilacoom-DuPont Road overpass.
What Drivers Need to Know
Lane closures will begin at 8 p.m. each night, with one lane of I-5 rerouted through the off- and on-ramps at Steilacoom-DuPont Road starting at 10 p.m. By 6 a.m. the next morning, lanes will gradually reopen.
Emergency vehicles will still be able to access the Steilacoom-DuPont Road overpass throughout the closures.
Detour Routes
Drivers should plan and follow these detour routes during the closures:
- Northbound I-5: If you need to take Exit 119 at Steilacoom-DuPont Road, you’ll be detoured to 41st Division Drive before re-entering southbound I-5 at Exit 119.
- Steilacoom-DuPont Road to Northbound I-5: You’ll be rerouted onto southbound I-5 at Exit 118 (Center Drive) before looping back to northbound I-5.
Why This Project Matters
This construction is part of WSDOT’s long-term effort to improve traffic flow on I-5. The project will add new high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes in both directions between Mounts Road and Gravelly Lake Drive.
As part of the upgrades, a new overpass is being built to accommodate the additional lanes and meet modern vertical clearance standards for I-5.
The existing overpass, originally constructed in 1957, has been flagged as being in poor condition following its most recent inspection by state transportation officials.
Once completed, the new interchange will enhance traffic efficiency and provide a smoother commute for drivers navigating this busy corridor.
If you’re traveling through this area over the weekend, be sure to allow for extra travel time and stay informed about the latest traffic conditions.
Source: Land Line
