SEATAC, Wash. — Lower Arrivals Drive at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) will be closed overnight this week so crews can demolish an unused ramp as part of a project to improve transit.
Full Lower Arrivals Drive closures will begin every night at midnight, beginning Monday, and will last until 7 a.m. The project is expected to be completed by 7 a.m. Thursday. A single lane closure will continue until 8:30 a.m. each day.
"We're going to see the lower drive completely closed during that time period, because the only way we can knock this down is by closing what's underneath, so we don't damage any cars," said Perry Cooper, a spokesperson with the airport.
SEA said traffic will be diverted to Upper Departures Drive and that drivers should expect additional traffic congestion.
"When you put them both together that's going to be unbelievable. Are they going to have people directing traffic," Blume said.
There won't be people directing traffic, but alternative options are recommended.
“Whether it's taking light rail, dropping off through the garage from our south entrance or finding another option from ground transportation or our Ubers, Lyfts would be a great option,” Cooper said.
During the closure periods, courtesy vehicles, such as hotel and parking shuttles, will be relocated to the northeast ground transportation lot on the first floor of the airport parking garage, according to SEA.
Single lane closures will continue Thursday through Saturday, Oct. 1 from midnight every night until 8:30 a.m. near the entrance of Lower Arrivals Drive.
The closures mark the final stage of the project to demolish the ramp. The demolition of the ramp is part of future work to reduce congestion and queuing, according to SEA. Crews will eventually add additional lanes for more direct access to parking, taxis and more transit improvements. Work is expected to begin in mid to late 2023.
SEA asks drivers to pay attention to directional signage and said staff will be available for assistance in and around the terminal.
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