Drivers traveling south on Interstate 5 north of Woodland should be prepared for significant delays of 90 minutes or longer beginning Friday morning and continuing into the weekend. Construction work on the southbound lanes of the North Fork Lewis River Bridge will reduce the interstate to two lanes, causing stop-and-go traffic and backups during peak travel times.
Drivers are encouraged to travel earlier or later in the day when traffic volumes are lower and weather conditions are cooler to avoid overheating your car.
If you must travel during peak hours, make sure to fill your gas tank or fully charge your electric vehicle, pack extra water and have an emergency kit on hand.
While the delays may be aggravating, drivers should stay on I-5 because there are no detour routes. Washington State Patrol and the Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office are monitoring roadways and exits to ensure traffic remains on the interstate rather than diverting to the steep, narrow and winding Green Mountain Road.
