January 6th, 2026

I-5 “Months of Hell” Are Back with a Vengeance

Seattle drivers survived last summer’s disruption — now, “months of hell” on Interstate 5 are returning.

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is launching a long-term phase of Ship Canal Bridge and I-5 preservation work that will shrink northbound lanes and keep major sections of the highway under construction for months. That means extended lane closures, congestion, and heavy delays for anyone trying to enter or leave downtown Seattle via I-5.

Listen to Seattle's Morning News w/ Charlie Harger and Manda Factor every weekday at 5am on KIRO Newsradio 97.3 FM or go to MyNorthwest.com to learn more!

Charlie Harger

Seattle's Morning News