Traffic Alert: I-90 Lane Restrictions This Weekend

MERCER ISLAND, WA - I-90 eastbound will be reduced this weekend to one lane in Seattle and traffic routed onto the express lanes. The closure begins Friday night at 11 p.m. and lasts until 5 a.m. on Sunday.

The closures are necessary so contractors can make safety improvements in the Mount Baker and Mercer Island tunnels. Eastbound drivers should expect lengthy delays, including along connecting freeways like I-5 and I-405.

Here's what the closure will look like according to WSDOT:

• Eastbound I-90 traffic between Rainier Avenue South and Bellevue Way Southeast will be routed to the express lanes.
• The exit from eastbound I-90 to Rainier Avenue South will be open.
• The on-ramp from Rainier Avenue South will be closed and a signed detour provided.
• Drivers traveling to Mercer Island from Seattle can exit the express lanes at Island Crest Way or 77th Avenue Southeast.
• Drivers heading to the Eastside from Mercer Island can get on eastbound I-90 at Island Crest Way or East Mercer Way.
• Flammable materials will be prohibited on eastbound I-90. Drivers hauling flammable cargo must use alternate routes such as I-405 or state routes 520 or 522.
• The I-90 Trail will not be affected.

Image via Patch.com