Washington State Department of Transportation’s I-405/Northeast 132nd Street Interchange project improved mobility and reliability by maximizing the performance of the existing transportation system. Designed to relieve congestion at nearby overcapacity interchanges along I-405, the $50.4 million project redistributed traffic, reduced bottlenecks, and improved travel times throughout the corridor without the need for costly roadway expansion.

Rather than adding capacity, the project focused on improving system efficiency. A key feature replaced traditional signalized intersections with modern roundabouts, eliminating the need for traffic signals, power infrastructure, and ongoing signal maintenance. New interchange connections and roundabouts promote continuous traffic flow, easing congestion during peak travel periods while improving access to Kirkland’s Totem Lake Regional Growth Center.

The upgrades strengthen connections to jobs, schools, and healthcare facilities, including EvergreenHealth Medical Center and nearly 15 hospitals and clinics serving more than 850,000 people. By improving access to I-405 and the growing Totem Lake Town Center, the project supports economic development, facilitates the efficient movement of goods and services, and provides more reliable travel for drivers, freight operators, pedestrians, and emergency responders.