WSDOT’s contractor, Mowat Construction, will turn on a new traffic signal at 8 a.m., Dec. 11 at the intersection of SR 522 and Woodinville Drive. The new light is the latest safety improvement in the $50 million SR 522 UW Bothell/Cascadia Community College campus access project
“SR 522 travelers should be ready to slow down and stop as they approach Woodinville Drive,” said WSDOT Project Engineer Janice Fahning. “It’s a big change for drivers, but the new traffic light will make the intersection safer for everyone.”
Crews have already completed rebuilding the intersection at SR 522 and Woodinville Drive and opened three legs of the intersection at the end of October. They are also building a new entrance to the south side of the campus, as well as a new roadway for SR 522 (Bothell Way NE) from the I-405 interchange to Kaysner Way in Bothell.
Starting Dec. 11, the new signal will direct traffic on SR 522 through the intersection and help drivers safely enter and exit the highway. Previously, drivers crossed two lanes of traffic to turn left to or from SR 522.
Sensors embedded in the roadway will trigger a green arrow for westbound SR 522 drivers waiting in a left turn lane to reach Woodinville Drive. Motorists leaving Woodinville Drive to turn left onto westbound SR 522 will also wait in a turn lane for a green arrow.
In fall 2009, crews will reprogram the signal and open the north leg that will carry traffic to the new south entrance of the Bothell campus.
For more information, visit www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/SR522/UW.
Drivers can now get real time traffic and weather information by dialing 5-1-1 from most phones. This new traveler information system builds upon the highly successful Washington State Highway hotline that manages 4.6 million calls each year. Callers can also use 5-1-1 to get statewide construction, mountain pass condition, and state ferry system information, as well as toll free numbers for passenger rail and airlines. TTY users can call 1-800-833-6388.