Tolling on the first section of the new State Route 509 (SR 509) expressway will begin Monday morning, marking the end of its free trial period. This change impacts thousands of daily commuters in the SeaTac area, requiring them to use a Good to Go pass or face additional charges.
The new expressway segment opened in late June. It connects Interstate 5 (I-5) to 24th Avenue South in SeaTac. This initial mile is part of a larger project designed to extend SR 509 to 188th Street, eventually meeting the current end of the highway near the southwest side of the airport.
Key Takeaways
- Tolling on SR 509 expressway begins Monday, September 25.
- Tolls range from $1.20 to $2.40 with a Good to Go pass.
- Peak tolls apply northbound in the morning and southbound in the afternoon.
- Approximately 17,000 vehicles use the new segment daily.
- Drivers without a Good to Go pass will pay an extra $2 fee.
New Tolling System Details
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has confirmed that the new tolling structure will be active for the morning commute on Monday. The current segment of the expressway is used by about 17,000 vehicles each weekday. This number could change once tolls are in place.
Lauren McLaughlin, a spokesperson for WSDOT, noted the road's popularity during its free period.
"Definitely people are using it," McLaughlin said. "They’re checking it out. We’ve heard from some people that it’s a nice little quick jump right off I-5 to their house or to their community. So there’s definitely some fans of it."
Toll Pricing Structure
Tolls on the SR 509 expressway will vary. With a Good to Go pass, prices will range from $1.20 to $2.40. The exact cost depends on the time of day and the direction of travel. This variable pricing system is specific to this new facility.
The highest toll of $2.40 will apply only during certain peak times. It will be charged for northbound travel during the morning commute. For the afternoon commute, the $2.40 toll will apply to southbound traffic. This pricing matches the expected traffic flow and demand on the road.
Quick Facts on SR 509 Tolling
- Toll Range: $1.20 - $2.40 with Good to Go pass.
- No HOV Lanes: All vehicles pay the toll.
- Axle-Based Pricing: Larger vehicles or those towing trailers pay more.
- Pass Requirement: A sticker pass is needed to avoid extra fees.
Important Information for Drivers
Drivers should be aware that there are no HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) lanes on this new toll road. This means all vehicles, regardless of the number of occupants, will be required to pay the toll. The price also increases based on the number of axles a vehicle has. Larger vehicles, such as big rigs, or those towing trailers, will incur higher charges.
A sticker pass is necessary to use the corridor without additional fees. If a driver does not have a sticker pass, an extra $2 charge will be added to their toll bill. WSDOT is offering a limited number of free passes to help drivers transition to the new system.
Acquiring a Good to Go Pass
WSDOT spokesperson Lauren McLaughlin stated,
"We do have a limited supply, and it’s one per household. If you have multiple cars, you have to pick your favorite one, or purchase others, but you do get one for free."This free pass offer is designed to encourage early adoption of the system.
A sticker pass costs $5 plus tax. These passes are available at many local retail stores. However, WSDOT advises drivers not to wait until the last minute to open an account or purchase a pass. The customer service center is expected to be busy during the first week of tolling.
Preparing for Tolling
Drivers are encouraged to prepare in advance. Opening a Good to Go account and getting a pass now can help avoid delays. McLaughlin suggested, "If you have time to prepare now, I’d encourage you to do it, but also be a little patient, as everyone rushes to get that taken care of on the first day."
Navigating the New Expressway
The new expressway segment has some specific access points that drivers need to remember. There is currently no access to SR 509 from southbound I-5. Similarly, drivers on SR 509 cannot access northbound I-5 from this new section.
This means drivers planning to use the new expressway should check their routes carefully. These access limitations are important considerations for daily commutes and travel plans in the area. The remaining sections of the SR 509 expressway are projected to open in 2028, completing the larger infrastructure project.
Future of SR 509
The current segment is just the initial phase of a much larger project. Once fully completed, the SR 509 expressway is expected to improve regional mobility significantly. It will provide a more direct route for many commuters, reducing travel times and easing congestion on other major roadways.
This long-term infrastructure investment aims to support the growing transportation needs of the SeaTac region. The 2028 completion date will bring the full benefits of the extended expressway to local residents and businesses.
