News
Find news releases and announcements about the agency in our virtual newsroom.
Yakima-area highway construction season wraps up, US 97 roundabout work in Wapato to resume in spring
WAPATO – The 2025 highway construction season is winding down in the Yakima Valley. The Washington State Department of Transportation completed projects on US 12 near Rimrock and State Route 821 in East Selah. Work at US 97 and Lateral A in Wapato will pause for the winter and pick back up next spring.
Don’t let Thanksgiving travel gobble you up
OYLMPIA – The road to Grandma’s house is about to get a lot busier. That is why the Washington State Department of Transportation recommends planning ahead for heavy traffic, delays and potential winter weather this Thanksgiving – wherever pumpkin pies and stuffing may lead you.
New traffic lights along SR 7 through Parkland and Spanaway
SPANAWAY - New traffic lights for people who walk and roll are now active along SR 7/Pacific Avenue South through Parkland and Spanaway.
Community conversation on North Spokane Corridor
SPOKANE – Public and active transportation users are invited to take part in the second season of community conversations surrounding the North Spokane Corridor’s final connection project.
Emergency repairs on damaged I-90 overpass near Cle Elum to begin by end of November
CLE ELUM – Work to replace the Bullfrog Road overpass above the westbound lanes of Interstate 90 near Cle Elum is set to begin by the end of November. The bridge was hit and severely damaged by an over-height load in late October.
Permanent SR 167 bridge repairs in Pacific begin Nov. 19 with overnight closure of all northbound lanes
PACIFIC – Permanent repairs are set to begin on the northbound State Route 167 bridge across Third Avenue Southwest in Pacific. It was damaged this fall by an over-height vehicle. To set up the work zone, all northbound lanes of the highway between Stewart and Ellingson roads will close Wednesday night, Nov. 19. When…
State ferries to pay tribute to veterans with flags, whistle salute on Veterans Day
SEATTLE – At 11:11 a.m. on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, all Washington State Ferries that are underway will sound their whistles. This special moment is a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the people who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Fall traffic alert: Closures on I-405 in Bellevue and SR 522 in Bothell could rake in delays, Nov. 7-10
BELLEVUE – Travelers are advised southbound Interstate 405 in Bellevue and State Route 522 in Bothell will see closures from Nov. 7-10.
Roundabout construction finishes on SR 104 at Paradise Bay Road in Jefferson County
PORT LUDLOW – Travelers on the west side of the Hood Canal Bridge have a safer ride now that the second of two roundabouts on State Route 104 in Jefferson County is complete.
Hit pause: Work to replace bridge deck across the I-90 Vantage Bridge wraps for winter
VANTAGE – Construction activity has paused for the winter. All lanes are now open, and the 9-foot width restrictions have been removed. The speed limit is reduced to 55 miles per hour, and travelers should be cautious of rough transitions between the old and new sections of the bridge deck.
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.