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 regionwide.

Special events schedule

Express lanes are northbound-only 24 hours a day for Revive I-5

The I-5 express lanes will remain in the northbound direction around-the-clock, until the end of 2026. This is to facilitate the lane reductions on northbound I-5 as part of the Revive I-5 project. There are no exits from the northbound express lanes to downtown Seattle or SR 520. Southbound I-5 travelers should plan for additional delays and congestion due to the express lanes remaining northbound.

Ninth Avenue on-ramp to express lanes closed until Sept. 8

The Ninth Avenue on-ramp in Seattle to the I-5 Express Lanes is closed around the clock until Sept. 8. The entrance from Pike Street remains open.

I-5 express lanes map

Map showing the express lane entrances during the Revive I-5 Project

During northbound Revive I-5 Ship Canal Bridge work, the express lanes are northbound-only 24 hours a day. Solo drivers may use the express lanes, but must use the entrance from the northbound I-5 mainline or the Mercer Street or Howell Street/Eastlake Avenue on-ramp.

Slow down – lives are on the line.

Drive the posted speeds, they’re there for your safety.

Phone down, eyes up.

Pay attention – both to workers directing you and to surrounding traffic.

Stay calm

Expect delays, leave early or take an alternate route if possible; no appointment is worth risking someone’s life.