Blue Angels activity to close I-90 bridge

July 27, 2009 12:49 pm
The U.S. Navy Blue Angels will practice and perform from Thursday through Sunday.
The U.S. Navy Blue Angels will practice and perform from Thursday through Sunday.

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels are coming and that means the I-90 floating bridge will be closed off and on for their practices and air show during Seafair.

The closures will occur on all lanes of Interstate 90 across Lake Washington several times from Thursday, July 30, thru Sunday, August 2.

By closing I-90, the state is complying with Federal Aviation Administration rules to create a safer environment for drivers and Blue Angels pilots by reducing distractions to both.

The closures include all mainline I-90 lanes between Interstate 5 in Seattle and Island Crest Way on Mercer Island, and the entire length of the I-90 Center Roadway. Also, the bridge will be closed to all pedestrians and bicyclists up to 30 minutes prior to posted closure times.

The exits from westbound I-90 to Island Crest Way and East Mercer Way on Mercer Island will remain open, although drivers should note that heavy congestion during these closures restricts access to the exits.

The listed times are for mainline I-90 closures. Drivers are reminded that the Center Roadway will close up to two hours before the times indicated. The following ramps can be expected to close 30 minutes prior to posted closures depending on congestion: East Mercer Way to West I-90, 76th Ave. SE to West I-90, West Mercer Way to West I-90 and East I-90 to West Mercer Way.

Thursday, July 30: Two separate bridge closures, during which pilots will practice maneuvers and become familiar with area geography. First Closure: 9:45 a.m.-12:00 p.m.; Second Closure: 1:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Friday, July 31: 12:45 p.m. – 2:40 p.m. (practice show)

Saturday, August 1: 12:45 p.m. – 2:40 p.m. (full show)

Sunday, August 2: 12:45 p.m. – 2:40 p.m. (full show)

Drivers who want to ensure they can cross the lake using I-90 should drive across Lake Washington at least one hour before the announced closure times. No stopping or parking is allowed on the floating bridges.

During the I-90 closures, the SR 520 floating bridge will not be open to marine traffic. It will remain open to vehicular traffic.