I-90 Closures Coming Soon!

In just a month, major safety repairs start on the I-90 floating bridge. Drivers will face congested freeway lanes and ramps to and from Mercer Island.

The state Department of Transportation will completely close the I-90 express lanes between Mercer Island and Seattle from May 4-23 and completely close the westbound mainline lanes to Seattle from July 5-28.

Crews must replace the massive steel expansion joints that allow the bridge to flex with the changing temperatures, wind, water levels and traffic. The aging joints are continuing to crack and deteriorate, requiring constant maintenance. The new joints will be safer and more reliable.

Which ramps will be closed on Mercer Island? In May, construction crews will close both of the westbound ramps to the I-90 express lanes: Island Crest Way and 77th Avenue Southeast. As a result, additional congestion is expected on weekdays on the westbound mainline lanes from 7-10 a.m. and from 4-7 p.m.

Good news for Mercer Island drivers heading eastbound: The express lanes will be open for people going to Bellevue and points east.

Long delays are expected in July when all westbound traffic shifts to the I-90 express lanes. Mercer Island residents can start planning their commute options now, and warn any potential out-of-town visitors about the upcoming construction so they don’t have to sit in traffic during their vacation.

To avoid gridlock in July, solo drivers can travel before 6 a.m., or join a vanpool or carpool during construction. Bicycle commuting also is an option. As part of the project, WSDOT is building temporary bridges to keep the I-90 trail open to bicyclists and pedestrians.

The work is unavoidably noisy. Crews use noise shields and quieter backup alarms, and the noisiest equipment will only be used during the day. Fliers will be sent to homes that will be most affected by the noise.