Commuters should expect changes on I-5 as a new phase of construction begins near DuPont and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. If the weather is good on Wednesday, Oct. 23, northbound lanes between Mounts Road and 41st Division Drive will shift to accommodate the ongoing project, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT).
Lane closures will start as early as 7 p.m. between Center Drive and 41st Division Drive. Ramps to and from Center Drive, Steilacoom-DuPont Road, and 41st Division Drive will also be closed, but no more than two consecutive ramps will be closed at the same time. Drivers will be redirected using signed detours to the nearest available ramps.
These closures are part of a larger project that includes adding new northbound and southbound HOV lanes on I-5, building a new bridge over Pendleton Avenue, and continuing work on a half diverging diamond interchange at I-5 and Steilacoom-DuPont Road, as well as a new roundabout. All lanes and ramps will reopen by 4:30 a.m. the next morning.
Following the temporary disruptions, commuters on Thursday morning, Oct. 24, will see changes to the northbound lanes from Center Drive to the existing HOV lanes at JBLM. According to WSDOT, this adjustment is part of the ongoing work in the I-5 median to support the construction of new lanes and road improvements.
WSDOT emphasizes the importance of safety in work zones, urging drivers to slow down and follow posted speed limits for everyone's safety. They emphasize the need for attention and courtesy toward construction workers and other road users. The overall project aims for completion by late fall 2026, and more details about the planned infrastructure improvements can be found in WSDOT's online open house, which outlines how these changes will enhance travel efficiency and road capacity.
Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead and consider alternate routes. While these temporary changes may be inconvenient, they are part of ongoing improvements aimed at creating a more connected and efficient I-5 corridor.
