In anticipation of the FIFA World Cup, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is taking steps to minimize traffic disruptions by limiting road construction in the greater Seattle area. This initiative aims to facilitate smoother travel for both residents and the influx of visitors expected during the tournament.

Construction Restrictions

WSDOT has announced that major construction projects will be restricted, particularly on state-owned highways and interstates, from June to July. The Revive I-5 project on the Ship Canal Bridge will remove all traffic controls during this period. Additionally, full overnight roadway and ramp closures on major routes will be limited from noon the day before a match to noon the day after. This includes I-5 from Tacoma to Bellingham, I-90 from Seattle to the Idaho state line, the entirety of I-405, and US-2 from Everett to Wenatchee.

Matches are scheduled in Seattle on June 15, 19, 24, and 26, as well as July 1 and 6. To further ease congestion, the Seattle Department of Transportation will limit most construction in busy areas from June 8 to July 7, requiring contractors to clear the right-of-way by June 7. This pause applies to anyone with a street use permit in the downtown core, near stadiums, or on transit routes.

Pedestrian Zones and Public Transport

On match days, Pioneer Square will be transformed into a pedestrian-only zone, with streets closed four hours before each match begins. For those looking to avoid street traffic, various public transportation options are available, including Sound Transit’s Link Light Rail and Sounder train, buses through King County Metro and Pierce Transit, and the King County Water Taxi. More information on these resources can be found on the WSDOT website.

WSDOT also provides a real-time map on their website and app, offering updates on incidents, traffic impacts, and closure information for state-owned roads, highways, and interstates.

Original reporting: Renton Reporter — read the source article.