Travelers on I-5 in Vancouver will soon experience a smoother ride as crews take the next step toward fixing rough and bumpy roads.
On Monday, May 4, Washington State Department of Transportation contractors began to repair the driving surface along southbound I-5 between Northeast 179th Street and the I-5/I-205 split. This work is weather dependent and will continue through the summer, with breaks during major events. Once complete in late summer 2026, crews will remove the “Rough Road” signs between Northeast 179th Street and I-205.
What to expect
- Occasional shoulder closures and up to three-lane closures in the work zone.
- Some full closures of I-5 and I-205 near the split, along with on-ramp closures. Most full closures will take place at night or on weekends to reduce impacts to travelers.
- Weekend lane closures with two lanes open on I-5 during the day.
- Travelers should plan for heavier traffic and possible delays of up to 6 miles on southbound I-5.
- Work will pause during major events, including the Clark County Fair, to help reduce effects to travelers and local traffic.
Recent improvements
This 2.2-mile stretch of southbound I-5 was built in 1969 using concrete panels. Many of the roughly 8,400 panels are more than 50 years old and are worn down, creating a rough and uneven ride.
From 2022 to 2025, crews focused on the “worst of the worst” sections, replacing about 180 panels along I-5 and I-205 near the split. While these efforts helped improve conditions, some roughness remains.
Looking ahead
Crews will also address the stretch of I-5 just north of the crack, seat, and overlay project, between Northeast 179th Street and Ridgefield.
This summer, crews will replace the most damaged panels. In 2027, they will return to complete the full crack, seat and overlay work.
This stretch of I-5 is part of many daily trips, from early morning commuters heading to work and local travelers running errands to freight trucks moving goods through the state.
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