Memorial Day weekend is a time of celebration and travel for many Americans, but it can also be a chaotic and stressful experience. With soaring gas prices and a surge in travel demand, it's essential to plan ahead to avoid the worst of the crowds and congestion. This year, the American Automobile Association estimates that 45 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles during the Memorial Day weekend, with the average cost of gas in Pierce County at $5.88 per gallon. This article provides a comprehensive guide to navigating the roads and avoiding the busiest hours, as well as tips for managing the crowds at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and the Port Defiance/Tahlequah ferry route.
When to Leave
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) recommends leaving before 5 a.m. or after 10 p.m. to avoid the busiest times on Interstate 5. According to travel charts, the roads are expected to be busiest on Thursday, May 21, with peak congestion at 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and again from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, May 22, sees peak congestion from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., while Saturday, May 23, and Sunday, May 24, have peak congestion from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., respectively. Monday, May 25, is the busiest day, with peak congestion from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, sees peak congestion from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Construction Projects
WSDOT has suspended most highway construction work from Friday, May 22, to Monday, May 25, to ease congestion. However, drivers should still be on the lookout for lane shifts or work zone staging that may remain in place. There are three major projects in Pierce County that might still cause delays: the Interstate 5 Mounts Road to Steilacoom-Dupont Road Corridor Improvements Project, the State Route 167 Gateway Project, and two new roundabouts at State Route 507 and 208th Street South in Spanaway, and State Route 702 at Harts Lake Road South near McKenna.
Mount Rainier National Park
The state Route 410/Chinook Pass and state Route 123/Cayuse Pass will reopen at 8 a.m. on Friday, May 22, just in time for Memorial Day weekend. Both passes close every winter due to snow levels and avalanche risks.
Tolling
Toll rates for the Tacoma Narrows Bridge will stay in effect for drivers heading from Gig Harbor to Tacoma. Rates are $4.50 with a Good to Go pass, $5.50 at the toll booth, and $6.50 when paying by mail. For drivers passing through King County, the Interstate 405 and state Route 167 express toll lanes will be free on Monday, May 25.
Ferries
WSDOT warns residents to prepare for extended wait times at ferry terminals. The busiest sailings are expected to be westbound (or onto an island) Thursday through Saturday, May 21-23, and eastbound (or off island) Saturday through Monday, May 23-25. The Port Defiance/Tahlequah route will be running on a weekend schedule, and residents can check times at www.wsdot.com/ferries/schedule.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is expected to see 970,000 travelers from May 21 to 26, with the busiest days being Thursday, May 21, Friday, May 22, and Monday, May 25. Residents should arrive at the airport two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. Parking for Memorial Day weekend is expected to sell out, so it's recommended to reserve ahead of time.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
To avoid the worst of the crowds and congestion, consider leaving before 5 a.m. or after 10 p.m. on Interstate 5. Use WSDOT's real-time traffic map and traffic cameras to stay updated on road conditions. Have a backup outdoor destination in mind, as parks and other outdoor recreation sites tend to fill up quickly on holiday weekends. Finally, stay informed by signing up for Washington State Ferries Alerts, the WSDOT app, or the WSDOT email alerts.
In conclusion, Memorial Day weekend is a time of celebration and travel, but it can also be a chaotic and stressful experience. By planning ahead and following these tips, you can navigate the roads and crowds with ease and enjoy a smooth and memorable holiday.
