Heavy traffic expected this weekend in downtown Seatle

As the holiday shopping season along and major planned events begin in earnest, the Washington State Department of Transportation is cautioning drivers to anticipate heavier-than-normal congestion and give themselves enough time in case of delays.

As the holiday shopping season begins and major planned events begin in earnest, the Washington State Department of Transportation is cautioning drivers to anticipate heavier-than-normal congestion and give themselves enough time in case of delays starting Friday

· Friday, Nov. 25 – The downtown Seattle exits will likely experience heavy traffic as people make their way to the annual Macy’s Holiday Parade beginning at 9 a.m.

·  Saturday, Nov. 26 – Heavy congestion is anticipated around CenturyLink Field hours before the Apple Cup’s 4:30 p.m. kickoff.

·  Sunday, Nov. 27 – The Seattle Marathon will affect traffic with lane and ramp closures.

 The Interstate 5 express lanes will be closed from 7 to 10 a.m., when they will reopen to southbound traffic.

o   The Interstate 90 express lanes will be closed from 3:45 until 11:15 a.m. and will reopen westbound to accommodate Seahawks game day traffic. The lanes will close again at 2:30 p.m., and reopen to eastbound traffic at 3:30 p.m.

o   The northbound I-5 off-ramp to Lakeview Boulevard will be closed from 7 a.m., until 4 p.m.

o   The westbound State Route 520 exit to E. Roanoke Street will be closed from 7 a.m., until 3 p.m.

 Stay on top of closures and changing conditions by visiting the state’s Seattle Traffic page.