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Project overview

WSDOT is proposing to improve mobility and resiliency of I-5 through the Nisqually River Delta. This will open the doors for environmental restoration. The project focuses on the section of I-5 between the Marvin Road interchange (Exit 111) and the Mounts Road interchange (Exit 116).

The corridor connects Thurston and Pierce counties, providing access to Joint Base Lewis-McChord. This section of I-5 experiences frequent congestion, especially during commute times. This results in extended travel times and reduced freight mobility. The Nisqually River estuary is in the traditional lands of the Nisqually Indian Tribe. The estuary also provides habitat for salmon and other wildlife.

The proposed project includes a shared use path along the north side of I-5. The path will provide access for people walking, biking or rolling between Lacey and DuPont. The path will have access to or near three interchanges – Exit 116, Exit 114 and Exit 111.
The proposed project includes a shared use path along I-5, providing access for people walking,
biking or rolling between Lacey and DuPont.

WSDOT completed a Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) Study in 2023. The study recommended a long-term solution for I-5 between Marvin Road and Mounts Road to study in the NEPA EA phase. The purpose of the project is to:

  • Enhance mobility and connectivity on I-5 for passenger vehicles, freight, transit, and people who walk or roll.
  • Increase capacity for vehicles, freight and active transportation.
  • Improve local and I-5 system resiliency.
  • Enable environmental restoration and ecosystem resiliency at I-5 across the Nisqually River Delta.
  • Support economic vitality through reliable and efficient freight movement and access to major employers.

Timeline

WSDOT initiated the NEPA EA phase in July 2024 and expects to complete this phase spring 2026. WSDOT will continue to engage advisory groups and the public throughout the project.

A timeline showing the schedule for the NEPA phase of the project. The timeline highlights the PEL study, initiation of NEPA, and development of the EA. Partner, public, tribal and agency outreach spans the full schedule from Fall 2022 to Spring 2026.
WSDOT initiated the NEPA EA phase in July 2024 and expects to complete this phase spring 2026. WSDOT will continue to engage advisory groups and the public throughout the project.

WSDOT is currently in the EA scoping period. Scoping is when federal, state agencies and the public work together to determine what issues to address in the EA. The scoping period identifies issues and resources, and potential impacts on those resources.

The formal 30-day public comment period for scoping the EA is active now through September 12, 2024. Visit the ‘Share Your Feedback’ page to share your comments.

What will happen during the NEPA EA?

During the EA, WSDOT will:

  • Evaluate potential design options for bridge length and other project elements. 
  • Identify potential environmental impacts of the project during construction and operation. 
  • Identify potential strategies to mitigate identified impacts.