WSDOT is continuing work for the failing expansion joint on the eastbound side of the I-90 East Channel Bridge. The emergency single-lane closure implemented last month will continue to be in place to prepare the area for temporary lane restriping which will help alleviate congestion.

WSDOT announced an updated plan for the restriping work: the agency is targeting a full eastbound I-90 closure to complete the temporary restriping on the East Channel Bridge (where the failing expansion joint is located). This closure will allow the restriping to be completed quickly while helping prevent backups onto Island streets. While the restriping work requires several days of dry weather and temperatures above 40 degrees, WSDOT is targeting the weekend of March 8 to complete this work if weather allows.

The restriping will slightly shrink lane widths in order to reopen a fourth lane on I-90. This should help ease the increased congestion experienced from the current lane closure. The speed limit will be adjusted for safety in that section (down to 45mph) to account for the slimmer lanes and limited shoulder access. Once completed, this temporary restriping will be in place until summer 2025 when WSDOT can replace the failing expansion joint.

The closure will start on the Seattle side with no cars coming across I-90 eastbound to the Island. This will prevent the rerouting of off-Island traffic onto Mercer Island streets. There will be an on-Island detour for Islanders needing to travel east: the only access point onto I-90 eastbound will be at the East Mercer Way I-90 on-ramp. Westbound I-90 and related on/off-ramps will operate as usual. 

WSDOT is continuing to monitor conditions and will alert the City when this restriping work is confirmed. As always, you can see the latest I-90 conditions on WSDOT's Real-Time Travel Map.

Throughout the year, City staff host a variety of volunteer events across our public spaces and parks system - together, volunteers and staff help restore landscapes, plant native species, maintain vegetation, and more. There are several upcoming events in March, including a project at the Native Plant Nursery (March 9), a special Pi Day event at Aubrey Davis Park (March 14), and ivy removal at Pioneer Park (March 16). No experience necessary and tools are provided. You can see all events on the City's event calendar.

The City's Recreation Division and Youth and Family Services Department are hosting a Senior Resource Fair to provide older adults with information, resources, and services that cater to their specific needs and interests. This event is a great opportunity for seniors and their families to see all that's available in our community to help navigate various aspects of aging, while maintaining a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. This free event takes place on Saturday, March 2, 2024 from 10:00am - 12:00pm.

See a list of all participating organizations and get additional details on the online event listing. The City thanks our sponsors Áegis Living Mercer Island, Belle Harbour, and Aljoya for helping make this event possible.