Diverging diamond construction revs up in Lacey

Crisscrossing lanes bring a brand new travel concept to the South Sound.

A virtual drive through, created by WSDOT, show drivers how Lacey's new diverging diamond interchange at Exit 111 will look.

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“At first I thought it was kind of hokey and didn't really think much of it, in fact, I was kind of against it at first, but the more I thought about it and the more I researched it, it made sense to me,” said Joe Wichman.

People who live near the Marvin Road interchange said traffic keeps getting worse.

“Hawks Prairie has definitely grown in the last 10 years since I graduated high school from around here, so it's just a very congested area, so for them to pick that area is a tough spot for people,” said Joshua Scott.

WSDOT said the first big traffic impact starts in a month or two. Crews will close the southbound left turn lanes, forcing drivers to turn right. They'll detour onto Hogum Bay Road, through the roundabouts and back onto Marvin Road.

"It's going to be bad. I'm probably going to think of a different way,” said Kristal Gamble.

"From now on I'm going to be taking the Nisqually back way,” said Scott.

WSDOT said drivers should plan ahead and find alternate routes. Southbound drivers are recommended to get off at the Nisqually exit instead.

The project also adds a new frontage road, which will run parallel to I-5 south. It will take drivers to Cabelas, a future town center and a new I-5 on-ramp.

"I think it's going to make it worse for a while, but it's one of those deals where it's going to get worse before it gets better, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel,” said Wichman.

WSDOT said the entire project is expected to be completed in late 2020 or early 2021.

Cox Media Group