Update: Nighttime speed reduction and lane closures for fuel cleanup on southbound I-5 in Lacey wrap up

Lane closures and reduced speed limit lifted

UPDATE: Crews have finished removing contaminated soil on southbound I-5 in Lacey.

LACEY – Cleanup from a recent tanker truck spill brought delays to overnight and early morning travelers on southbound Interstate 5 in Thurston County.

Starting Sunday, April 23, crews closed lanes and reduced speeds to remove soil contaminated with diesel fuel along the roadway on southbound I-5 between mileposts 109.75 and 110.10 near Northeast Carpenter Road in Lacey.

Work was scheduled overnight, from 7 p.m. in the evening until 10 a.m. the following morning each day. Overnight work took place Sundays-Thursdays, with no work in the evenings on Fridays or Saturdays . During the work, southbound I-5 was reduced to two lanes. The speed limit was also reduced from 60 mph to 45 mph through the work zone. The speed limit reduction was only during lane closures and working hours.

The nighttime lane closures and reduced speed limit were in place until the contaminated soil was removed and replaced with fresh fill.

This work was needed because on March 13, a tanker truck overturned on southbound Interstate 5 in Lacey, spilling 2,850 gallons of diesel fuel. Cleanup crews initially treated the area after the crash and removed 2.5 tons of contaminated material, but this additional work is needed to fully remove all contamination.

Work zone safety

Please remember to keep an eye out for crews during this work to help ensure their safety as well as all travelers. Whenever near work zones please:

  • Slow down – drive the posted speeds, they're there for your safety.
  • Be kind – our workers are out there helping to keep you safe and improve the roadways.
  • Pay attention – both to workers directing you and surrounding traffic; put your phone down when behind the wheel.
  • Stay Calm – expect delays, leave early or take alternate routes if possible; no meeting or appointment is work risking someone's life.

Real-time traffic information is available on the WSDOT app and WSDOT Travel Center.

Slow down on ice and snow.

It's easier to skid or lose control traveling at higher speeds. Give yourself more time to stop.

Carry chains, practice installing them.

Winter conditions could mean chains are required on your route. Practice putting them on your vehicle ahead of time.

Pack your winter car kit.

Carry extra supplies like warm clothing, ice scraper and brush, jumper cables and other emergency items.