I-5, I-405, SR 99 and SR 520 closures could cause backups beyond the freeway on neighborhood streets and alternate routes not typically impacted by heavy traffic.
SEATTLE — Drivers across the Puget Sound region should prepare for major delays this Mother’s Day weekend as several key highways and bridges face simultaneous closures tied to ongoing construction projects.
From May 8 through May 11, major restrictions are planned along Interstate 5, Interstate 405, state Route 99 and state Route 520, impacting travel across Seattle and the Eastside. The Washington State Department of Transportation said the busy construction schedule is part of an accelerated effort to complete critical projects ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Beginning Friday night, northbound SR 99 will close across the First Avenue South Bridge from 9 p.m. until 5 a.m. Monday for ongoing bridge repairs. Crews will replace large steel panels on the bridge, with additional nighttime and possible holiday weekend closures expected later this month.
At the same time, eastbound SR 520 will shut down between I-5 and Montlake Boulevard from 11 p.m. Friday until 5 a.m. Monday. The closure is connected to the Portage Bay Bridge project, where crews are shifting traffic lanes and building a new work zone for long-term improvements.
Drivers will also continue to see two northbound I-5 lanes closed across the Ship Canal Bridge as part of the Revive I-5 project.
On the Eastside, southbound I-405 will close between Coal Creek Parkway in Bellevue and North 30th Street in Renton from 11:30 p.m. Friday until 4 a.m. Monday. Crews will pave roadways and upgrade drainage systems as part of preparations for future express toll lanes. A signed detour along Coal Creek Parkway will guide drivers around the closure.
In Kirkland, all ramps at the Northeast 85th Street interchange will also close from 11 p.m. Friday until 4 a.m. Monday. Northeast 85th Street will be fully closed between 114th Avenue Northeast and 120th Avenue Northeast while crews shift traffic onto newly constructed roundabouts.
WSDOT warns that when multiple major corridors are restricted at once, backups often spread beyond the freeway system into neighborhood streets and alternate routes not typically affected by heavy traffic.
Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time and consider alternatives like transit, park-and-ride options or adjusting travel schedules throughout the weekend.
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