President Biden’s upcoming visit to Seattle, scheduled for May 10 and May 11, is anticipated to cause significant traffic disruptions throughout the city and surrounding areas. Coupled with ongoing local events and construction projects, commuters are advised to prepare for potential delays and detours, particularly if traveling to and from Seattle and the Eastside this weekend.

SR-520 Bridge Closure

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has announced the closure of the SR-520 Bridge in both directions across Lake Washington from May 10 to May 13. Commencing at 10 p.m. on Friday, May 10, crews will initiate maintenance work, including the installation of utilities and permanent pavement, continuing uninterrupted until 6 a.m. on Monday, May 13. Additionally, Lake Washington Boulevard will be closed from Montlake Boulevard to East Foster Island Road during the same period. Pedestrians and cyclists should note that the SR-520 bike and pedestrian trail will also be fully closed from 6 a.m. on Saturday to 5 a.m. on Monday.

Impact of President Biden’s Visit

While specific details of President Biden’s itinerary have not been disclosed, White House officials have confirmed his presence in Seattle during the specified dates. The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) has cautioned drivers to expect significant travel disruptions and detours, as the U.S. Secret Service may implement intermittent closures of freeways and streets for security purposes. Although the exact routes and timings of these closures are not disclosed beforehand, travelers are advised to plan ahead and anticipate delays. SDOT engineers will adjust traffic signal timing within the city and provide updates via dynamic message signs if necessary.

Other Traffic Projects and Closures

In addition to the SR-520 Bridge closure and President Biden’s visit, several other traffic projects are scheduled for the weekend, including:

• Northbound I-5 Lane Reduction: A section of northbound I-5 from Everett to Marysville will be reduced to one lane from 9 p.m. on Friday, May 10, to 6 a.m. on Saturday, May 11.
• Eastbound I-90 Tunnel Lane Closures: Regular maintenance on the eastbound I-90 tunnel between Seattle and Mercer Island will result in the closure of the left two lanes from 10 p.m. on Friday, May 10, to 6 a.m. on Saturday, May 11.

Stay Informed and Plan Ahead

To stay informed about President Biden’s visit and receive real-time traffic updates, commuters are encouraged to monitor local news outlets such as NEWS.ORG 13 Seattle, which will provide alerts throughout the weekend. Additionally, downloading TLNA’s Weather and News Apps can ensure that the latest alerts are sent directly to your phone, keeping you informed and prepared for any changes to your travel plans.

Conclusion: Prepare for Weekend Traffic Disruptions

As Seattle braces for President Biden’s visit alongside ongoing construction projects and routine maintenance, commuters should prepare for potential traffic disruptions and plan alternative routes or transportation methods accordingly. By staying informed through reliable news sources and utilizing available resources such as TLNA’s apps, individuals can navigate the weekend with greater ease and efficiency. Remember to exercise patience and caution while traveling, prioritizing safety amidst the anticipated congestion.

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