Congestion expected Dec 23-26 on major routes like I-5, I-90 and US 2
OLYMPIA – People preparing for holly jolly festivities this season are urged to plan now for winter weather and expect delays while traveling on state highways, waterways or railways.
One way to help ensure holiday magic isn’t dimmed by delays is to “know before you go” by consulting the Washington State Department of Transportation’s popular travel charts to determine best times to travel, including times to avoid if possible. The Interstate 5 Canadian border forecast is not included due to unreliable pandemic travel data the last several years. Travel charts are based on 2019 pre-pandemic volumes.
The agency provides several tools to help prepare for winter travels – whether by vehicle, foot or sleigh:
Cross-state travel and mountain passes
Many people may travel on unfamiliar roads as they venture over the river and through the woods – and over mountain passes – to visit friends and family. Travelers can help keep everyone moving by being prepared for winter weather driving conditions and staying alert. Most pass closures, for example, are due to poor driver behavior, such as going too fast for conditions or not having proper winter driving equipment. WSDOT reminds drivers to follow posted chain requirements and slow down on snow and ice. An online winter travel reminders video has tips on how to check traction tire treads, alternatives to chains and what to carryin vehicles during winter travel.
No construction is planned on most state roads from Friday, Dec. 23 to Monday, Dec. 26 – including on I-90 and Snoqualmie Pass. However, the usual holiday increase in traffic volumes means travelers should expect delays on I-90, especially eastbound on Thursday and Friday and westbound on Monday and Tuesday (see charts for more detail). Text message alerts about significant delays on Snoqualmie Pass are available by texting the words “WSDOT Snoqualmie” to 468311.
“It takes just one reckless person driving too fast, under the influence or not following chain requirements to close a mountain pass for all of us,” said Jim Andersen, WSDOT’s Winter Program Manager. “Our crews take great pride in their work and do everything in their power to keep roads open – but we need drivers and truckers to do their part and slow down.”
Where’s the plow?
WSDOT crews work around the clock clearing and treating highways throughout the state. Plow drivers must travel 35 miles per hour or slower to apply deicer or salt and to appropriately clear the roadway of snow. Snowplows also often use “tandem plowing” – staggered plows working together to clear an area more efficiently.
“Just because you can’t see a plow doesn’t mean our hard-working men and women aren’t out there,” said James Morin, the agency’s maintenance operations branch manager. “Plow trucks typically cover between 40 and 100 miles of roadway each, so if you are not seeing a plow, it is most likely because it is either ahead of you, behind you or on another route.”
Several plows have been struck by motorists this winter, which is dangerous for everyone on roadways and also takes the plows off the road during storms. Plow drivers’ peripheral vision is limited while moving snow off roadways, so all drivers are reminded to give plows plenty of room to do their work and never pass on the right – or on either side if there’s not sufficient room to do so safely.
Tolls
In the Puget Sound, weekend toll rates will be in effect on Monday, Dec. 26, for the State Route 520 bridge and SR 99 tunnel. The I-405 express toll lanes will be free and open to all drivers on Monday. Out-of-town travelers, including those using rental cars, can learn about toll roads and temporary account payment options on the Good To Go! visitors page visitors page.
Ferry travel
People boarding a state ferry by vehicle should prepare for long waits. With Christmas and New Year’s Day falling on a Sunday this year, the Friday and Saturday before each holiday are expected to be the busiest. Delays are possible in both directions on all routes. Customers can bypass vehicle lines by traveling as a walk-on passenger.
Trains, airports and transit
Travelers making a trip by train, personal aircraft or bus also should plan ahead to avoid holiday delays:
Virtual meeting takes place Dec. 13 and 14
OLYMPIA – The Washington State Transportation Commission will cover several topics at its Dec. 13 and 14 meeting, including statewide traffic safety challenges, a statewide road usage charge program, and approaches to addressing possible shortfalls in fuel funding at Washington State Ferries.
The meeting starts at 9 a.m. both Tuesday, Dec. 13, and Wednesday, Dec. 14. This meeting will be virtual using Zoom. People interested in attending can register on the Commission’s website. TVW will broadcast the meeting live.
The commission will hear from the state Traffic Safety Commission on Tuesday, December 13 about alarming increases in fatalities and injuries on our roadways, suggesting the time has come for significant changes in how to address roadway safety. The Traffic Safety Commission will share current safety trends and possible needed policy changes.
Also on Tuesday, the commission will hold a work session on current research, testing and preparations for a road usage charge program in Washington state. This will include reviewing and selecting recommendations on how to advance a pay-per-mile system. The commission’s recommendations will be provided to the Legislature for consideration in the 2023 legislative session.
Some further highlights of the commission’s two-day meeting include:
The commission will take public comment at 11:15 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14. Those wishing to speak can sign up during the meeting by posting their name in the Q&A box on-screen. Written comments can also be submitted via email at:
For more information about the commission and a complete meeting agenda, visit the commission’s website: www.wstc.wa.gov.
Public can weigh in on possible ferry fuel surcharge via online forum
OLYMPIA – The Washington State Transportation Commission is seeking public input on the possibility of applying a ferry fuel surcharge to ferry fares in the future, to help cover growing fuel costs for the state ferry system.
The ferry fuel surcharge has been a possible funding tool available to the state since 2011 in the event fuel budgets fall short. However, due to more stable fuel costs in years past, the surcharge has never been activated by the commission.
Under the current regulation, the ferry fuel surcharge could be activated upon Commission approval. If activated, the surcharge would be added to the fare and could be in an amount from 2.5% to 10% of the fare, depending on the funding gap the surcharge is addressing.
The public can now weigh in on whether a fuel surcharge should be added to ferry fares and how it could be applied. The commission is hosting an online public input forum through Wednesday, Nov. 30. All input gathered will be shared with commission members at their virtual meeting scheduled for Dec. 13 and 14 and will help inform discussions around future ferry fuel funding needs during the upcoming 2023 Legislative session.
In addition to providing comments via the online forum, public comment on a possible ferry fuel surcharge can also be offered in the following ways:
For more information about the commission, visit: www.wstc.wa.gov/
Consider public transportation options and walk-on ferry service this Thanksgiving weekendThe Washington State Department of Transportation urges all travelers to “know before you go” and consult the agency’s popular holiday travel charts to determine best times to travel, including times to avoid if possible. The Interstate 5 Canadian border forecast is not included due to unreliable pandemic travel data the last several years. Travel charts are based on 2019 pre-pandemic volumes.
The agency provides several tools to help plan holiday travels:
Ready for winter
The safety of the traveling public and the movement of goods across our transportation system remain the agency’s top priority this winter. WSDOT crews are prepped for winter weather – including pre-treating and plowing. Travelers can help by being prepared for winter weather driving conditions. People can sign up for area-specific communication about road closures or scheduled maintenance activities including areas close to home or areas they’ll be traveling to for the holiday.
WSDOT encourages holiday travelers to work together to keep everyone safe, including those traveling by foot, bike, wheelchair or other modes.
“This time of year, many people are eager to see their loved ones and often make long trips, sometimes on roads they aren’t familiar with,” said WSDOT Active Transportation Director Barb Chamberlain. “When you increase your following distance and stop proactively for someone using a crosswalk or bike lane, you’re helping someone else make it home to their loved ones. Over 25% of the people who live in Washington aren’t drivers and they’re trying to get somewhere too.”
Mountain Passes
Weather conditions over mountain passes can change rapidly so it’s important for travelers to plan ahead and follow posted chain requirements. It’s often drivers who travel too fast, without traction tires or chains or under the influence that close a pass for everyone. No construction is planned on I-90 for Thursday and Friday, Nov. 24-25. However, the usual holiday increase in traffic volumes means travelers should expect delays, especially eastbound on Wednesday and Thursday and westbound on Friday and Saturday (see charts for more detail). Text message alerts about significant delays are available by texting the words “WSDOT Snoqualmie” to 468311.
Tolls
In the Puget Sound, weekend toll rates will be in effect on Thursday, Nov. 24, on the State Route 520 bridge and SR 99 tunnel. The I-405 express toll lanes will be free and open to all drivers on the Thursday holiday. Out-of-town travelers, including those using rental cars, can learn about toll roads and temporary account payment options on the Good To Go! visitors page.
Ferry travel
People boarding a state ferry by vehicle should prepare for long waits. Peak travel times on most routes are expected to be westbound (or onto an island) Wednesday and Thursday, Nov. 23-24, then eastbound (or off an island), Friday and Saturday, Nov. 25-26. Customers also can bypass vehicle lines by traveling as a walk-on passenger.
Studded tires allowed in Washington from Nov. 1 to March 31; stud-free winter tire alternatives are legal year-round
OLYMPIA – While many may be thinking about pumpkins and spiced ciders, now is the time for travelers to make sure they’re prepared for winter driving.
The Washington State Department of Transportation urges all travelers to start preparing themselves and their vehicles for winter weather. Drivers can check out WSDOT's winter driving web page for tips and information. WSDOT also asks travelers to always "know before you go" and get the most up-to-date roadway information before heading out.
“Our crews are ready for the upcoming snow and ice season, but we need travelers to get ready as well.” said WSDOT Maintenance Operations Manager James Morin. “Most pass closures are due to preventable spin outs or crashes from vehicles driven too fast or not having proper equipment. We need everyone to work together, be patient and prepared to help keep traffic moving.”
Crews are already prepping for winter, including hiring additional workers for peak winter months. While significant effort and progress has been made towards hiring, there is still a nationwide shortage of Commercial Driver License drivers for plows and other vehicles. This means it's even more important for travelers to be prepared to avoid preventable crashes or closures this winter.
Most mountain pass closures are due to preventable spin outs or crashes from vehicles driven too fast or not having proper equipment. WSDOT encourages all travelers to work together, be patient and prepared to help keep traffic moving.
To check conditions and prepare for winter weather:
Alternatives to chains Although some vehicle manufacturers recommend against the use of tire chains for certain models, that doesn’t excuse travelers from state traction device laws. These requirements exist to help keep all traffic moving safely during extreme winter conditions.
The Washington State Patrol provides an online list of state-approved alternative traction devices on its vehicle equipment webpage under “traction tires” These approved alternatives meet state traction tire requirements. All travelers are reminded to prepare for changing weather conditions and avoid a costly ticket by carrying chains or approved alternatives whenever crossing mountain passes. Failure to obey a tire chains sign can mean a ticket of up to $500. Special chain enforcement patrols will be keeping an eye on mountain passes this winter.
Studded tires By law, studded tires are legal for use in Washington state only from Nov. 1 through March 31. This applies to all vehicles in Washington, even those traveling from other states, and no personal exemptions or waivers exist.
WSDOT estimates studded tires cause between $20 million and $29 million in pavement damage to state-owned asphalt and concrete roadways each year. Motorists are encouraged to visit a tire dealer to learn about options, including stud-free, winter tread traction tires. This type of tire is different than an all-season tire, is legal year-round and does not cause the same roadway damage as studded tires. More information about studded-tire restrictions and requirements can be found in the Frequently Asked Questions on the WSP website.
Final recommendation to Legislature due in June 2023
OLYMPIA – After months gathering public feedback and reviewing technical analyses, the state Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission submitted Phase II recommendations to the Washington State Legislature that include continued study of two options for future aviation capacity.
The two options were submitted on Oct. 15 and include:
The demand for aviation in Washington state is growing and will soon exceed the capacity of existing airports. The Phase II recommendations come eight months after the commission recommended six preliminary airport sites with potential for expansion to meet both short- and long-term aviation needs.
“This is an opportunity for the state to consider how to meet capacity limits while also planning for an airport of the future,” said David Fleckenstein, WSDOT Aviation Director and chairman of the commission. “Increasing the use of sustainable aviation fuels could significantly reduce harmful emissions. Emerging aeronautics technology could also reduce noise from airplanes while also providing additional commercial air service options to more airports around the state.”
In the coming months, the commission will offer additional opportunities for public input and study additional technical data about each greenfield site still being considered. To learn about updates and new developments in the process, please sign up for email updates (under News, select “CACC”). A final recommendation is due to the Legislature by June 15, 2023.
The commission is considering environmental effects, economic and technical criteria and public feedback and opinion as it develops recommendations to improve Washington’s air transportation capacity.
About the Commercial Aviation Coordination Commission
The Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission was created by the Legislature in 2019 with a charge to provide a recommendation by June 15, 2023, for a single preferred location to meet the forecast demand for commercial passenger service, air cargo and general aviation. After the commission makes its final recommendation, it will be up to the Legislature and potential airport sponsors to act on that recommendation.
The Legislature directed three phases for the commission’s work:
In December 2020, the commission released its Phase I report, which listed six preliminary airport sites with potential for expansion to meet both short and long-term aviation needs. A February 2022 report provided a final short list of six locations. The October 2022 report details the two options selected. The commission will provide its recommendation for a single preferred location to the Legislature by June 15, 2023.
The commission’s 14 voting and 12 nonvoting members include representatives from the aviation industry, the public, airport communities, freight industry, state and local agencies and elected officials. WSDOT provides the commission technical assistance and staff support from its Aviation Division.
Nearly all transit agencies submit zero-fare policies for riders 18 and under
OLYMPIA – Transit agencies across Washington reached a major milestone in October, delivering policies that make riding transit free for people 18 and under. With the policies, the transit agencies secured access to funding from the state’s Transit Support Grant.
The Transit Support Grant, part of the Legislature’s landmark 16-year, $17 billion Move Ahead Washington transportation funding package, provides much-needed financial support to transit agencies statewide. Funding from the grant allows transit agencies to make high-priority investments, like new routes and vehicles to get people where they need to be, and new bus stops and stations to make sure people feel safe and comfortable while they wait for a ride.
“With the Transit Support Grant, Washington has a win-win scenario for access,” said WSDOT Public Transportation Division director, Brian Lagerberg. “This funding allows transit agencies to build on their great service for everyone in Washington. Even better, the grant prioritizes free rides for everyone 18 and under.”
To receive a Transit Support Grant, transit agencies must adopt zero-fare policies for riders 18 years and under. Of the 31 transit agencies eligible for the grant, 30 submitted policies. Those agencies are now able to receive part of the available $33.6 million in Transit Support Grant funding. Selah Transit, which didn’t submit a policy, plans to do so in order to become eligible to receive funding in 2025. Additionally, Sound Transit is not eligible for the Transit Support Grant but will still implement a zero-fare policy for riders 18 and under.
People 18 years and younger make up more than 20 percent of Washington’s total population. By making transit free for youth, the Transit Support Grant improves access for a large number Washingtonians and helps lower family transportation costs, which on average make up 16 percent of all household expenses. This percentage tends to be higher for families with lower incomes.
The Transit Support Grant is the first of the new public transportation grant programs WSDOT is rolling out under the Move Ahead Washington transportation funding package. The package’s public transportation investments total more than $3 billion over 16 years and include increased funding for new and existing programs, including the new Tribal Transit Mobility Grant and State Bus & Bus Facility Grant.
Presentation topics include autonomous vehicles and new technology
OLYMPIA – The Washington State Transportation Commission’s upcoming virtual meeting will focus on the future of transportation technology, mobility and infrastructure in Washington state, including how the state is preparing for the operation of autonomous vehicles on our public roads. The monthly meeting will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 18, and Wednesday, Oct. 19.
The meeting starts at 9 a.m. both days. Due to limitations related to COVID-19, this meeting will be virtual using Zoom. People interested in attending can register on the commission’s website. TVW will also broadcast the meeting live.
Highlights of Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s presentations include:
The commission will take public comment at 11:50 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 19. Those wishing to speak can sign up during the meeting by posting their name in the Q&A box on-screen. Written comments can also be submitted via email at: transc@wstc.wa.gov.
For more information about the commission and a complete meeting agenda, visit: www.wstc.wa.gov.
Addresses transportation and mobility access for people with special needs
OLYMPIA – Four years in the making, the updated Human Services Transportation Plan is now available. The report is the handiwork of subject matter experts, transportation providers, social services organizations, tribes, the public and other stakeholders.
Every day, people across the state rely on human-services transportation as their sole source of access to jobs, school, medical appointments, the grocery store and much more. The plan identifies gaps and barriers that create mobility challenges for people with special transportation needs. It also provides strategies for addressing those barriers while also highlighting innovations and emerging trends.
“It’s critical that everyone in our state has convenient access to reliable transportation, no matter their age, income, physical ability or where they live,” said Public Transportation Division Director Brian Lagerberg. “This plan provides our partners with a blueprint for serving the people who need efficient and specialized transportation options the most.”
The plan informs local and regional plans while guiding future investments in special needs transportation for communities across the state. WSDOT collaborated with the Disability Mobility Initiative to better understand the experiences of those who cannot drive and face barriers to transportation access that many may take for granted. These experiences bring the plan to life and show a larger picture of the consequences of transportation challenges faced by many Washingtonians.
The plan is available online in English, Spanish and Russian.
OLYMPIA – Labor Day often heralds the final moments of summer before fall activities begin. For people who plan to travel on the popular three-day weekend, now is the time to make travel plans and expect congestion on most routes.
The Washington State Department of Transportation encourages travelers to consult the holiday traffic volume charts to determine best times to travel, including times to avoid if possible. The Interstate 5 Canadian border forecast is not included due to unreliable pandemic travel data the last several years. Travel charts are based on 2019 pre-pandemic volumes.
Travelers should also check ahead for any COVID-19 safety requirements at their destinations or stops along the way.
By following these steps, travelers can “know before they go” and plan ahead, whether they’re just traveling across town or across the state:
Highway construction paused
Most state highway construction work is suspended through the holiday weekend – including Monday, Sept. 5 – to ease congestion. However, please stay alert for new lane shifts or work zone staging areas that may remain in place. And please give any emergency repair crews plenty of space to work safely.
Snoqualmie Pass
No construction is planned on I-90 from Friday, Sept. 2, until to Tuesday, Sept. 6. However, the usual holiday increase in traffic volumes means travelers should expect delays, especially eastbound on Friday and westbound on Monday (see charts for more detail). Text message alerts about significant delays are available by texting the words “WSDOT Snoqualmie” to 468311.
Tolling
In the Puget Sound, weekend toll rates will be in effect on Monday, Sept. 5, on the State Route 520 bridge and SR 99 tunnel. The I-405 express toll lanes will be free and open to all drivers on the Monday holiday. Out-of-town travelers, including those using rental cars, can learn about toll roads and temporary account payment options on the Good To Go! visitors page visitors page.
Ferry travel People boarding a state ferry by vehicle should prepare for long waits. Peak travel times on most routes are expected to be westbound Thursday through Saturday, Sept. 1-3, and eastbound, Sunday through Tuesday, Sept. 4-6. Customers also can bypass vehicle lines by traveling as a walk-on passenger.
Trains, airports and transit
Travelers making a trip by train, personal aircraft or bus also should plan ahead to avoid holiday delays:
For information about flying via Washington state airports, visit www.wsdot.wa.gov/travel/aviation/airports-list. For questions regarding WSDOT-sponsored airports, email Paul Wolf, State Airport Manager, at
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