New I-5 Overpass Opens Near JBLM

If you commute through DuPont or Joint Base Lewis-McChord, this is a major traffic update you’ll want to plan around.

A new I-5 overpass and southbound on-ramp have officially opened as part of the long-running Steilacoom-DuPont Road improvement project, marking a big milestone for one of the region’s most congested corridors.

At the same time, the old 1950s-era overpass has now been closed and is scheduled for demolition in early April.

🚧 What’s Changing

The newly opened overpass is designed to improve:

• Traffic flow to and from I-5

• Access for DuPont residents and JBLM personnel

• Safety at one of the more heavily traveled interchange areas in Pierce County

This is part of a broader effort to modernize infrastructure that, until now, relied on decades-old roadway design.

🗓️ Demolition Timeline

The next major phase begins with the removal of the old bridge.

📅 Demolition Dates: April 3–4 (overnight work)
📍 Location: Near Exit 119 (Steilacoom-DuPont Road)

During those nights, drivers should expect:

• Full or partial lane closures

• Detours around the work zone

• Delays of up to 30 minutes

Overnight construction is intended to minimize daytime disruption, but traffic impacts will still be noticeable, especially for late-night commuters and freight traffic.

🚗 Why It Matters

This stretch of I-5 is one of the most critical connectors in the South Sound, linking:

• Tacoma

• JBLM

• DuPont

• Thurston County

For years, congestion and outdated infrastructure have caused slowdowns, particularly during peak commuting hours.

The new overpass represents a long-term improvement aimed at:

• Reducing bottlenecks

• Improving safety

• Supporting continued population growth in the region

⏳ What’s Next?

Once demolition is complete, the project will move into its final phases, with additional improvements expected to further streamline traffic in the area.

For now, the biggest impact will be the temporary closures and delays during early April, making it important for drivers to plan ahead.

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