Tolls For New SR 99 Tunnel In Seattle Set

SEATTLE, WA - The long-awaited SR 99 tunnel through downtown Seattle will cost drivers between $1 and $2.25 maximum to travel through, according to a the state Transportation Commission. The decision was made after a public comment period where close to 2,000 locals weighed in.

The tolls will increase beginning in 2022 by about 3 percent (about 5 cents) every year. The tolls won't apply to vehicles like ambulances, buses, and rideshare vans.

The tunnel will cost $1 all hours on weekends. The maximum charge of $2.25 will be in effect between 3 and 6 p.m. weekdays. Tolls will be $1.25 during the morning rush hour.

WSDOT's last update on the project in mid-September placed the opening date for the tunnel in "early 2019." Before the tunnel opens, WSDOT will close SR 99 on Jan. 11 between the stadiums and the Space Needle for three weeks to realign the roadway.

That will be the longest closure of a freeway in the region's history.

Image via WSDOT