Lanes are shifting on I-5 through Tacoma as new construction phase begins



TACOMA -- Big changes are in store for drivers on Interstate 5 through Tacoma starting Thursday morning.

Northbound drivers are now being shifted into newly built lanes over I-705.

Starting next week barriers will go up and the southbound lanes will be split into two separate roads. The left three lanes will be for through traffic continuing southbound. The two right lanes will be collector-distributor lanes for traffic exiting for I-705 into downtown Tacoma and SR 16.

WSDOT is asking drivers to plan ahead for the changes.

“The new temporary lane configuration may take some time for drivers to get used to,” said WSDOT project manager Gaius Sanoy. “We appreciate drivers’ patience while we work toward finishing this project.”



The change is expected to last through 2017. This is all being done to replace old concrete on I-5 and build out HOV lanes that will go from Gig Harbor all the way to Everett.

For the next week expect some nightly lane and ramp closures in this area. Check out the tacomatraffic.com website for what to look out for.