#Realign99 closure update

Map of SR 99 closure through downtown Seattle

From WSDOT

Although we're halfway through the three-week #Realign99 closure, we still have a ways to go until the new SR 99 tunnel opens. Which means we still need your help to keep the regional transportation system moving.

Generally, we're seeing drivers get on the roads about an hour earlier than average for a typical weekday. As of Tuesday, January 22, King County Metro standby buses had carried 27,067 riders on 792 trips, and the West Seattle Water Taxi had carried 14,810 riders, which is more than triple the ridership compared to last year.

The Seattle Department of Transportation has also observed an increase in bicycle trips on all major routes with bicycle counters.

If you’ve made changes to your commute to eliminate or reduce single-occupancy trips, it’s important that you stay the course. 

And if you have yet to shift your commute style, it’s not too late to come up with a plan:

• Shift your travel time to avoid the busiest times on the roadway.
• Bike or walk to work or school.
• Start or join a carpool/vanpool.
• Start a telecommute program for employees.
• Use transit, particularly the light rail/Sounder train or King County Water Taxi.
• Stay off the road: work from home, postpone discretionary trips or take time off.
• Be prepared for your new route when the closure ends and the new tunnel opens.