South Thurston County I-5 drivers can expect heavy congestion for 2 weeks, officials say

Travelers who use northbound Interstate 5 in south Thurston County are being asked to build more time into their trips because of road work that will take place in the area over the next two weeks, the state Department of Transportation announced.

Drivers can expect heavy congestion and delays, WSDOT officials say.

Here's the schedule for the first week of repairs:

• Portions of northbound I-5 between Grand Mound and the Scatter Creek Rest Area will be reduced to one lane from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Thursday, Oct. 9-12.

Here's the schedule for the second week of repairs:

• Portions of northbound I-5 between Grand Mound and the Scatter Creek Rest Area will be reduced to one lane from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Thursday, Oct. 16-19.

WSDOT suggests travelers go early or later in the day, or consider combining trips or rescheduling non-essential travel.