Big news for Seattle drivers who have been snarled in the infamous Montlake Boulevard shuffle for decades: starting Monday, there’s a much more straightforward route to the westbound SR 520. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has unveiled new dedicated left turn lanes on Montlake Boulevard, providing direct access to the highway.

According to KOMO News, the "New day, new way" lanes are part of the Montlake Project and are expected to ease off years of congestion woes. For over 50 years, drivers heading to westbound SR 520 took a lengthy detour – an extra mileage jaunt past the highway, capped with a dicey U-turn to merge onto the southbound lanes.

The upgrade promises to not only cut down on confusion and travel time but also improve the general flow of traffic in an area that's long been a choke point. The former circuitous route was not just a hassle but also a contributor to traffic buildups that affected thousands daily.

A statement obtained by KING 5 from the WSDOT outlined the anticipated benefits of the new lanes. Motorists will supposedly experience an easier, more efficient path that aligns with the Department’s efforts to alleviate congestion in the area. Until now, drivers had to navigate a convoluted route, which not only added to their travel time but also increased risks associated with the awkward merges and U-turns near fast-moving highway lanes.

These improvements mark a significant shift in transportation dynamics for the Emerald City. Commuters and residents alike are ready to say goodbye to the old Montlake bottleneck, embracing the new lanes that are set to streamline their daily voyage onto SR 520. The Montlake Project continues WSDOT's commitment to enhancing transportation infrastructure, aiming to keep Seattle moving efficiently and safely.