Project overview
This paving project will improve nearly seven miles of Interstate 5 in south Thurston County between Old Highway 99 and Maytown Road.
What to expect
Expect double-lane closures along I-5 between Old Highway 99 and Maytown Road. Crews are installing traffic loops along sections of the roadway and may switch lane closure locations during each overnight shift. There may be at least two rolling slowdowns to move lane closure locations each night.
People are encouraged to check real-time traffic information on the WSDOT app or statewide travel map before heading out the door.
Double lane closures and rest area closures:
- 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Monday through Wednesday
- 9 p.m. Thursday to 6 a.m. Friday
- 9 p.m. Friday to 9 a.m. Saturday
Ramp closures:
- 10 p.m. Thursday to 6 a.m. Friday
- 10 p.m. Friday to 8 a.m. Saturday
The speed limit on I-5 will be reduced from 70 mph to 55 mph from milepost 88.9 to 95.7 when crews are working. Additionally, Scatter Creek and Maytown rest areas will close overnight. Both rest areas will reopen for daytime use.
People should expect increased travel times and consider adding up to 15 minutes for trips. Schedules can be affected by weather and are subject to change.
Work is expected to wrap up in October.
Work zone speed cameras
Speed cameras rotate through work zones including this project. Numerous signs will warn drivers if a camera is at a location. Work zones can be active day or night, and drivers should assume workers are in the area if they see a warning that the camera is in that location.
The goal of this program is to slow drivers, not generate infractions. This program also protects the safety of the traveling public. More than 90% of those injured in work zone collisions are drivers and their passengers. WSDOT’s camera vendor is currently deploying 10 cameras.
The paving portion of this project is complete. Permanent striping will be completed in September as weather permits.
Work began on southbound I-5 near Maytown Road Monday night, July 6. Mobile paving crews may work on northbound and southbound I-5 during overnight shifts Monday through Friday nights.
Preservation work
Sections of I-5 show signs of wear and tear. This includes cracks, potholes and ruts. Grinding down the damaged surface of the roadway and laying fresh hot mix asphalt eliminates and helps prevent future potholes.
Repaving preserves the highway structure and reduces the potential for costly emergency repairs.
Crews will also repave I-5 ramps and rest area parking lots.