Express lanes

Find schedule information and view a map of the I-5 Express Lanes.

The I-5 Express Lanes help traffic flow during busy travel times. These lanes move in the direction that will relieve the most congestion and are on a typical daily schedule that changes on weekends and occasionally for major events.

I-5 Express Lanes schedule

Monday-Friday

  • Southbound - 5 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  • Northbound - 11:15 a.m. to 11 p.m.
  • Closed: 11 p.m. - 5 a.m.

Saturday & Sunday

  • Southbound - 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
  • Northbound - 1:45 p.m. to 11 p.m.
  • Closed: 11 p.m. - 8 a.m.

Special events schedule

Express lanes open overnight

The I-5 Express Lanes will remain open northbound overnight to facilitate work within the lanes. They will return to their normal weekday schedule at 5 a.m. the following morning.

April 22 - 23

Express lanes close early

The I-5 Express Lanes will close at 9 p.m. in order to facilitate roadwork within the lanes. They will resume normal operation the following morning.

April 24 - 25

I-5 Express Lanes map

Map showing location of I-5 express lanes through Seattle

Slow down – lives are on the line. 

In 2023, speeding continued to be a top reason for work zone crashes.

Even one life lost is too many.

Fatal work zone crashes doubled in 2023 - Washington had 10 fatal work zone crashes on state roads.

It's in EVERYONE’S best interest.

95% of people hurt in work zones are drivers, their passengers or passing pedestrians, not just our road crews.