Drivers in Kent should prepare for nightly lane and ramp closures on Interstate 5 from Monday, Oct. 19, through Friday, Oct. 23. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) announced that two southbound lanes will be shut down each night from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. between SR‑516 (Exit 149) and South 272nd Street (Exit 147). The closures are part of the SR‑509 Completion Project and the broader Puget Sound Gateway Program.
Details of the lane closures
Each weekday night, both southbound lanes of I‑5 in the specified segment will be unavailable. The work will focus on improving drainage along the corridor, a critical step to prevent flooding and protect the roadway during heavy rain. WSDOT crews will install new culverts, repair existing drainage structures, and ensure that water can flow freely off the highway.
Ramp closures and detours
In addition to the lane closures, WSDOT will close the southbound I‑5 extension to South 272nd Street and the SR‑516 ramp that feeds southbound I‑5. These ramp closures will run from 9 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22, until 5 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 23. Signed detour routes will be posted well in advance to guide motorists around the affected ramps.
Why the work matters
Proper drainage is essential for the safety and longevity of the interstate system. By addressing water‑related issues now, WSDOT aims to reduce the likelihood of road‑surface damage, potholes, and hazardous driving conditions during the rainy season. The striping preparation scheduled for the early‑morning hours will also improve lane visibility and overall traffic flow once the project is complete.
What drivers should expect
Motorists traveling southbound on I‑5 through Kent should plan for longer travel times during the nightly closure windows. The posted detour signs will direct traffic to alternate routes, primarily using local streets that connect to the highway north and south of the work zone. Drivers are encouraged to stay alert for construction personnel and equipment, especially during the early‑morning hours when visibility can be reduced.
Additional resources
For up‑to‑date information on the SR‑509 Completion Project and the Puget Sound Gateway Program, visit the WSDOT construction‑planning website at wsdot.wa.gov/construction‑planning/search‑projects/sr‑509‑completion‑project. The site provides real‑time traffic alerts, maps of detour routes, and contact information for any questions about the project.
Community impact
The Kent community benefits from a well‑maintained interstate corridor that supports local commerce, commuter travel, and emergency response. While the temporary inconvenience of lane and ramp closures may cause short‑term delays, the long‑term improvements to drainage and roadway markings will enhance safety for families, businesses, and first‑responders alike.
Original reporting: Renton Reporter — read the source article.
