New Northbound Airport Expressway and Return-to-Terminal Loop Open at Sea-Tac Airport

The Port of Seattle opened Seattle-Tacoma International Airport's new Northbound Airport Expressway and Return-to-Terminal Loop roadway early this morning, greatly easing congestion for traffic leaving the airport.

This is a major step in the expressway relocation to accommodate more than a mile of light rail guideway between the northbound and southbound lanes. This construction replaces the old road system which was inadequate for current traffic levels and contributed to long vehicle queues during peak periods. Southbound lanes were rebuilt and relocated previously.

The new loop ramp will reduce traffic congestion on the airport roads, particularly on the drop-off and pick-up curbs in front of the terminal. The new loop makes the return route simpler and faster, as traffic currently has been forced to exit off S. 170th St. to re-enter the expressway to the west. A new relocated exit for S. 170th St. moves to the east for easy access to International Boulevard.

Construction is still underway on sections of the airport roadway, so please use caution when driving.

Sound Transit's work on the Airport Link segment of the light rail line between Sea-Tac International Airport and downtown Seattle continues on schedule to open in December 2009. Contractors are focused on completing the light rail tracks between Tukwila Station at S. 154th Street and SeaTac/Airport Station which is rising just east of the airport parking garage. This work is being done in coordination with the Port's work to shift the traffic lanes into and out of the airport.

More information on construction at Sea-Tac Airport is available on this site.