We are upgrading the SR 167 toll system because the current toll equipment is reaching the end of its operating life. SR 167 users will experience several benefits with the upgraded toll system, including new payment options, new toll rate signs for destination-based toll pricing, and double white buffer lines between the general purpose and express toll lanes in select areas.
The project will improve operations on SR 167 by creating a consistent toll system on the entire I-405/SR 167 corridor. The addition of photo tolling will give more drivers the option to choose express toll lanes on SR 167, including those without accounts. Motorists will be able to transition seamlessly from the I-405 to the SR 167 express toll lanes, a significant milestone in providing continuity and reliable travel options along the corridor.
Re-striping the SR 167 lanes will improve reliability for SR 167 drivers by allowing motorists to enter the toll lanes only in certain areas, which keeps traffic moving. We will install signage to notify drivers of upcoming exits to ensure that drivers have enough space to exit the roadway.
The project will create a new auxiliary lane in the southbound direction between the SR 516 and South 277th Street interchanges to address operational challenges on SR 167 between these interchanges. Currently, heavy on ramp and off ramp volumes at these interchanges cause a bottleneck on SR 167. The auxiliary lane will reduce congestion by smoothing heavy merging and diverging vehicles between these interchanges, and improving area traffic operations and safety performance.
There will be minimal construction impacts to the traveling public as this project use shoulder pavement with minor widening within the existing right of way.
We are advancing preliminary engineering and environmental work to be construction ready.
In 2019, the Legislature intended to fund the preliminary engineering, environmental and construction with bonded toll revenue. The projects may be constructed together or separately, depending on available funds. This includes the SR 167 NB HOV/HOT Conversion project.
I-405/SR 167 Corridor Program
The SR 167 Toll Upgrade project is one project that makes up the I-405/SR 167 Corridor Program.
I-405 Express Toll Lanes
With the I-405 express toll lanes, you have the choice to pay a toll for a faster trip when you need it. Toll rates adjust to keep traffic moving. The express toll lanes operate from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and are free on weekends and overnight (from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.). Motorcycles and qualifying carpools can use the lanes for free with a Good To Go! pass.
SR 167 - SR 410 to SR 18 NB Congestion Management
WSDOT is adding an additional northbound HOV lane within the existing pavement width that will begin near State Route 410 in Pierce County, and continue north and tie into the existing SR 167 HOT Lane near Auburn in King County. Once construction is complete, the additional lane will open as a HOV lane and transition to an Express Toll Lane (ETL) at a future date.
