Get ready for a significant upgrade to your driving experience in DuPont, Washington! The year 2026 brings a much-needed relief to I-5 commuters.
But here's where it gets controversial... While some may argue that it's a long time coming, others might question the timing and impact of these changes. Let's dive in and explore the details!
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is set to unveil a brand-new interchange at Stelicoom-DuPont Road, promising improved access to DuPont and JBLM. And the best part? You can expect to see this project come to life as early as this month!
WSDOT spokesperson Doug Adamson confirms that the new southbound access to the interchange will be partially opened by mid-January. This strategic move is designed to accelerate the construction schedule, ensuring the project stays on track.
And this is the part most people miss... The new roundabout, located just north of the freeway, will also be a game-changer for southbound drivers. It offers a dedicated exit, with a right turn for those heading to DuPont and a left turn for those bound for JBLM.
However, northbound drivers and those coming from JBLM will continue to use the old exit and overpass for now. Adamson assures us that the full opening of the new overpass and the demolition of the existing one are scheduled for later this spring. This process will require several overnight closures of I-5, but specific dates are yet to be announced.
One of the most significant benefits of this project is the elimination of backups and increased safety. The new overpass will drop drivers on the other side of the railroad tracks, a much-needed improvement for the area.
Additionally, the new HOV lanes between Gravelly Lake Drive and Mounts Road, part of this comprehensive project, are expected to open over the summer. This final phase of construction has been years in the making, adding new overpasses and HOV lanes through JBLM.
While these improvements have enhanced the drive-through area, it hasn't been without challenges. Adamson acknowledges that the bottleneck has simply been moved, but emphasizes the significant positive impact it will have for those serving at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.
After this work is completed, southbound I-5 will slim down to three lanes at Mounts Road, pushing congestion further south. This issue won't be fully resolved until WSDOT tackles the next phase, which involves widening I-5 in both directions through Nisqually. This ambitious project requires new bridges over the Nisqually River and is still years away from completion.
So, there you have it! A comprehensive overview of the upcoming changes to I-5 through DuPont. What are your thoughts on these improvements? Do you think they will make a significant difference in your daily commute? Feel free to share your opinions and experiences in the comments below! We'd love to hear from you and spark a discussion on this topic.
