Seattle DOT to cool bridges, roadways during city’s excessive heat wave

In addition to the “Revive I-5” construction project that begins on Friday, the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) will be working hard to protect roads, bridges and vehicles from heat damage.

According to the SDOT, there are many ways heat can affect roads and bridges. High temperatures can slightly heat the road surface, making it softer and expanding. This creates potholes and ruts, especially in heavily frequented areas. In Seattle, several steel drawbridges are being built across the city’s waterways. High temperatures can cause this steel to expand and cause problems opening and closing.

SDOT to focus on vulnerable roads and bridges on Saturday June 26; Sunday June 27; and Monday June 28th. Expect delays every three days when traveling as the crews will spray the University, Fremont and Ballard bridges with cold water. The water is also fortified with vitamin C to neutralize the chlorine from the truck. The bridges are closed for several minutes at least twice a day to properly shower them. These showers take place at any time from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. as required.

Crews will also be ready to respond to road problems such as sinkholes or cracks, SDOT said in a press release on Friday.

With temperatures rising into the triple digits in the region, SDOT is reminding drivers to do everything possible to drive safely in extreme heat. SDOT recommends inspecting your vehicle to make sure it is in good operating condition before getting in the driver’s seat and to make sure your gas tank is full or full before hitting the road. In extreme heat, SDOT recommended drivers keep their gas tanks three-quarters full and plan their route by checking all road conditions – like bridge closures or pothole fills – and traffic.

If you have any problem with your car or breakdown while driving in excessive heat, call for help immediately and keep the car air conditioning on while waiting. If the air conditioning is not working, find a shaded or cooled area nearby to wait, away from traffic lanes.