Traffic delays and road closures are likely during this week’s visit to Seattle and Tacoma by Chinese President Xi Jinping. President Xi is scheduled to fly into Paine Field in Everett Tuesday afternoon and travel to the Westin in downtown Seattle. Several streets around the Westin are expected to be closed during his entire visit Tuesday through Thursday.
Wednesday, Sept. 23, includes a full day of events. He is expected to travel to Everett, Bellevue, Tacoma and within Seattle. Traffic on I-5 and SR 520 will be affected while he and his motorcade travel to the different venues.
If you do not have to drive Wednesday, especially in the downtown Seattle core or the highways along his planned routes, don’t. If you do, please plan accordingly and pack your patience.
Monitor traffic conditions throughout the day by checking the Washington State Department of Transportation’s traffic web page, Twitter feed or calling 5-1-1.