Attention, Auburn drivers, prepare for smoother travels this summer. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has announced they're going to start a significant roadway project on eastbound State Route 18. After the Fourth of July holiday weekend, crews are set to grind and repave a 3-mile section of the road and replace some seriously old bridge expansion joints, as reported by WSDOT.
Beginning on July 7, the work will include repaving of the stretch from C Street to near the Green River, covering both the eastbound lanes and the bridges over Auburn Way and F Street. The upgrade also encompasses repairing pavement on the SR 18's on- and off-ramps at Auburn Way and replacing worn-out expansion joints on the C Street Southwest bridge. "This section of SR 18, which carries about 65,000 vehicles per day, was last paved in 2003, meaning the asphalt has outlived its expected 15-year lifespan," explained WSDOT. When completed, the project promises to not just smooth out the ride but also to extend the roadway’s service life for many years to come.
Commutes might get tricky, as much of the work is scheduled for weeknights between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m., with some single-lane and ramp closures. But it gets more complicated: a narrow section will need to completely close down eastbound SR 18 for up to four nights, all in the name of worker safety. While the primary work is on eastbound lanes, don't think westbound gets off scot-free. Replacing the joints on the C Street Southwest bridge will require several weekend directional closures of SR 18—including nearby ramps—from 9 p.m. Fridays to 5 a.m. Mondays. Eastbound SR 18 could be closed for up to four weekends, and westbound SR 18 could see closures for up to three weekends, although both directions won't close simultaneously.
For those concerned about being rerouted, signed detours will be available using city streets during the closures. And WSDOT is being considerate, planning to avoid scheduling work during the Washington State Fair, major events at the White River Amphitheater, and the Muckleshoot Resort Casino, as well as other community events. The work schedule is not set in stone yet, but drivers can stay up-to-date by checking the project webpage and WSDOT’s real-time travel map for the latest updates.
