Olive Way exit closure answer: No changes to parking on Madison for now

With the Olive Way exit closure one week away, we asked Sound Transit a couple of the questions that have come up here on the site. Answers below. If you have other questions or comments about the Olive Way exit or other issues pertaining to Sound Transit's light rail construction, let us know and we'll see what we can do to get answers. You can also cut out the middle man and go straight to the source -- here's Sound Transit's 24-hour construction hotline: (888) 298-2395

Q: Madison is going to get slammed with N Cap Hill traffic, I'm wondering if they will stop allowing parking on the outbound side staring at 6pm (as is allowed now)?

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A: The current detour plans do not include parking restrictions along Madison Street, however that is one of tools that could be put in place if traffic becomes a problem. Sound Transit has been working in close coordination with the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) to identify the detour routes for this closure.  Both agencies will closely monitor traffic along the detour routes after the ramp is closed to determine if additional action is necessary. Any changes to the approved detour plan would require concurrence by SDOT (684-ROADS).

Q: What is Sound Transit doing to help customers driving to businesses in the Olive Way area find their way?

A: Sound Transit staff has been and will continue to go door to door along the detour route to deliver a handout that includes maps and simple driving directions that businesses can use to help direct their customers over the phone, post on their website, etc. Detour directions, maps and information can be located at www.soundtransit.org/i5undercrossing.

For more on the closure including alternative routes, see our latest coverage.