I-405 in Bothell, Washington, is set to undergo a significant closure, causing potential disruptions for commuters. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has announced that both directions of the highway will be fully closed during the first two weekends of March, specifically March 7-9 and March 13-16. This closure is a crucial part of the I-405/Brickyard to SR 527 Improvement Project, aiming to expand and enhance 4.5 miles of I-405 through Bothell.
The primary reason for the closure is the removal of the remaining northbound I-405 to State Route 522 ramps over SR 522. WSDOT emphasizes the necessity of these closures to ensure driver safety and protect the I-405 bridge deck during the ramp removal process. Lisa Hodgson, the I-405/SR 167 Program Administrator, highlights the lessons learned from previous ramp removals, allowing for reduced closure times compared to initial estimates.
However, the closures are expected to have a substantial impact on regional travel. Drivers should anticipate two to three-mile backups on I-405 during the full closures. The first closure will commence at 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, affecting all lanes of northbound I-405 at the SR 522 Interchange and all lanes of southbound I-405 from SR 527 to SR 522. Lanes will remain closed until 4 a.m. on Monday, March 9. The subsequent closure will start at 9 p.m. on Friday, March 13, with similar lane closures and potential early reopening on Sunday, March 15, depending on the progress of ramp removal.
During these closures, specific ramps will be closed, including the northbound I-405 on-ramp to westbound SR 522 and the eastbound and westbound SR 522 on-ramps to northbound I-405. Additionally, the southbound I-405 full closures will involve the closure of SR 527 on-ramps to southbound I-405 and the Northeast 195th Street on- and off-ramps (exit 24).
Detour routes have been planned, but WSDOT warns of potential congestion on the Bothell Everett Highway, a congested route itself. Residents and commuters have expressed concerns about the impact on already challenging traffic conditions in the area. Zack Smith, a local worker, and Jim Boehmer, a nearby resident, highlight the existing traffic issues and the additional closures on back roads.
In conclusion, the I-405 closure in Bothell is a necessary step for infrastructure improvement, but it will undoubtedly cause disruptions and challenges for the local community. Commuters are advised to plan their routes accordingly and be prepared for potential delays during these closure periods.
