No Revive I-5 work this weekend due to UW graduation

SEATTLE — With the University of Washington’s graduation ceremony this weekend, the Washington State Department of Transportation will be postponing Revive I-5 work.

According to WSDOT, the work was simply not scheduled this weekend and not postponed due to the rainy forecast.

Crews are using polyester polymer concrete to replace the expansion joints on the freeway, but it’s sensitive to moisture.

This resin-based material was first used 20 years ago, and although it cures faster than cement concrete, it has a shorter lifespan and costs 20% more.

Last weekend, crews built tents and used sandbags and blowers to help them work in wet weather, and found some success until the rain intensified.

Although the tents are helpful in lighter rainy conditions, they’re not as useful in heavier rainfall.

For more details on how WSDOT plans to approach Revive I-5 work in wet conditions moving forward you can read a full explanation here.

Note: A previous version of this story stated the cancellation was due to impending rain and has been corrected.

©2022 Cox Media Group