Kent, WA – Commuters in King County can expect smoother travel this evening as both directions of State Route 167 between Kent and Auburn have officially reopened following earlier flood-related closures.
According to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), floodwater has receded and all sandbags have been removed from the highway. Crews inspected the northbound lanes and on-ramps Friday afternoon before reopening them to traffic.
The closure, which began earlier this week due to flooding and debris concerns, caused significant congestion and detours through alternate routes in South King County. WSDOT shared that workers completed final cleanup and safety checks just ahead of the Friday evening commute.
Traffic cameras show vehicles once again flowing smoothly through the corridor, including the stretch near 15th Street and SR 167 in Kent, which had been under water earlier in the week.
Officials are reminding drivers to remain alert for residual water or slick spots on nearby side roads as the region continues drying out.
This reopening marks a welcome improvement for thousands of commuters traveling between Kent, Auburn, and the greater Seattle metro area.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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