WSDOT postpones major I-5 construction on Ship Canal Bridge [Video]

WSDOT said that if it went forward with the project as is, it would have exceeded budget projections.

SEATTLE — A major construction project that would have shrunk part of Interstate 5 in Seattle for months, clogging traffic, has been delayed.

A spokesperson with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) confirmed Monday that the construction is expected to begin in 2026. Lane closures were previously scheduled to begin in March.

The spokesperson said WSDOT was actively working with its contractor to align construction spending with available funding while balancing the bridge’s preservation needs and public impacts. Due to changes in the financial environment, WSDOT said there was a “significant” gap in funding, and the original plan would have exceeded budget projections. Now WSDOT will focus the project’s scope on preserving the Ship Canal Bridge Deck.

WSDOT still plans to perform some work this year, which could include weekend closures and possible lane reductions, impacting travelers.

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