Survivors of last summer’s Highway 529 closure debacle had every reason to be apprehensive as the dates on the calendar crept closer and closer to May. After several delays, Tuesday became the start date for this year’s bridge closure and repair project. Like a horror movie sequel, "Return of the Closure" had the potential to further traumatize road weary north-end commuters. Some even chose to take the day off rather than risk hour-long commutes in hopelessly snarled traffic.
Bracing themselves for the worst, courageous drivers were pleasantly surprised and more than a bit relieved as most of them breezed through both the morning and afternoon’s rush hours.
The difference between this year and last?
Listening, solid planning and huge doses of communication.
All it takes is a trip across 529 to appreciate the efforts of the state Department of Transportation, regional planners and law enforcement personnel. Washington Transportation Secretary Doug MacDonald and his staff deserve much of the credit for the smooth and speedy ride. Admittedly surprised by last year’s disaster, they rolled up their sleeves and worked hard to lessen the impact on commuters, homeowners and businesses this time around. Reversible lanes on Highway 529, once thought impossible, have proven efficient and effective.
The morning of the first day of the closure brought with it all of the classic elements of a transit nightmare and put months of planning to the ultimate test. Traffic reports during the inaugural rush hour warned of a five-car fender bender on southbound Highway 529 and a distracting car fire on the northbound lanes of I-5. Oh, and of course, it was raining. Fortunately, the DOT had incident response teams standing by.
Within minutes, the accident was cleared and traffic was moving southbound at (or slightly above) the posted speed limit. That was the case the rest of the week with a close watch kept on every possible scenario that might block the commute. Flat tire or a breakdown? Expect someone Johnny on the spot to help change the tire or tow the car quickly. DOT traffic cameras have been installed in several strategic locations, allowing drivers to check for potential roadway congestion (www.wsdot.wa.gov/PugetSoundTraffic/cameras/).
As is often the case with sequels, the "Return of the Closure" proved itself much less horrifying than the original. Last year, the DOT was bombarded with complaints from frustrated business people, government officials, homeowners and commuters. Hopefully this year, equal numbers of people will take the time to share their appreciation for a job well started.
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