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WSDOT’s Revive I-5 work kicks off this summer – here’s how you can keep moving in Seattle

Blog stats: 750 words | 4-minute read


At-a-glance:

  • What’s inside: Details on Revive I-5 project travel impacts, expected closures, and how to get around the city.
  • Project overview: WSDOT’s Revive I-5 project is rehabilitating the Ship Canal Bridge in Seattle, resulting in four weeks of lane closures and multiple weekend closures of northbound I-5 in Seattle this summer.
  • Get ready: Plan early and explore transit or other travel options before construction begins.
  • Resources: Tips, tools, and trip-planning at FlipYourTrip.org.
  • Summer in Seattle: From FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ to cultural attractions, the waterfront, parks, local shops, sports, and concerts – there’s plenty to enjoy!
  • Stay informed:

What is Revive I-5?

This summer, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will launch Revive I-5 – a multi-year rehabilitation of I-5 in Seattle. Initial work begins with several closures and lane reductions along northbound I-5, as well as more phases later this year and extended closures in 2026 and 2027.

The project will rehabilitate the aging Ship Canal Bridge, which last had a major preservation effort about 40 years ago. The bridge deck shows considerable wear, and crews have completed more than 200 emergency repairs since 2019.

An image of a large bridge over a body of water, in the city.
View of the I-5 Ship Canal Bridge, looking west. Photo: SDOT

What can I expect this summer?

Northbound I-5 lane reductions and weekend closures

  • June 20-23: Initial weekend lane reduction to complete early activities, including drainage work on the Ship Canal Bridge.
  • July 18-21: Full weekend closure of northbound I-5 from I-90 to NE 45th St to set up the work zone.
  • July 21-Aug. 15: Closure of two northbound I-5 lanes across the Ship Canal Bridge for approximately 4 weeks.
  • Aug. 15-18: Second weekend closure to remove the work zone.
  • Note: The I-5 Express Lanes will remain open to northbound traffic while work takes place this summer.

How can I get where I need to go?

While travel will be challenging during construction, here are tips to keep in mind: 

  • Ride transit – it’s the best, most reliable way to get around. Youth 18 and under ride free!
  • Learn about all your travel options in the Seattle area by visiting FlipYourTrip.org
  • Stay informed, leave extra travel time, and check conditions before you head out.
  • Consider traveling outside of peak times if you can.
A graphic showing Flip Your Trip, with a picture of a salmon and a logo for Seattle Department of Transportation. There are icons for transit, bike and scoot, walk and roll, shared rides, and about.
Seattle’s FlipYourTrip.org website offers a suite of travel options you can use every day. Graphic: SDOT
A light rail train travels on an elevated track over a highway with many cars and trucks on the road, on a sunny and cloudy evening.
A Sound Transit Link light rail train passes over I-5 traffic in north Seattle. Photo: SDOT

Will I be able to get to work, school, and other appointments?

Yes, but you’ll need to plan ahead and should leave yourself more travel time than usual. If you work in Downtown Seattle, there are a range of transit options available to help with your commute from light rail to RapidRide buses. See the map below for some travel ideas.

A map of transit routes in a graphic. Green lines show bus routes, a blue line shows a light rail route, and an orange line shows I-5 construction. The lines travel down to a box at the bottom that says "Downtown Seattle".
Map showing frequent, reliable transit options to get to Downtown Seattle. Note: the Aurora Ave N (SR 99) 24/7 bus lanes are coming soon. Graphic: SDOT

What else is going on in Seattle this summer?

Beyond construction on I-5 and city streets, Seattle’s summer calendar is packed with exciting series of events – from Seafair and Bite of Seattle to concerts on the new waterfront, pro sports, major music performances and neighborhood community festivals – and, this June, the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™.

You’ll want to enjoy these one-of-a-kind events with your family, friends, and neighbors. With a little planning, an open mind to hopping on transit, a bike or scooter share, or even just carpooling, we’ll all get to our destinations and enjoy everything Seattle has to offer. Learn about your transportation options at FlipYourTrip.org.

A zoomed out photo of a large event on a waterfront pier on a sunny day. Large buildings are visible in the background.
Festivities on the waterfront during summer 2024. Photo credit: Erik Holsather/Friends of Waterfront Park.
A group of people dance at an indoor celebration. They are wearing bright pink and white dresses, and smiling while waving scarves in the air.
Performers at a previous Día de Muertos festival at The Armory in Seattle. Photo credit: Seattle Center Marketing.

Where can I find more information about Revive I-5?

To stay informed about Revive I-5 project information:

Thank you, Seattle! Your patience and preparation today are helping build a city primed for the world-class events of tomorrow. This includes safer streets, well-maintained bridges, and a more reliable transit system. Thanks for sticking with us and our partners as we navigate major construction and large‑scale gatherings this summer and beyond. Seattle, we’ve got this!