[Traffic] How is 15th Avenue for getting across Lake Union (or whatever that inlet is called)

[sean98125]

The Ballard Bridge only gets congested when it is opening for boat traffic. The Ballard Bridge doesn't open for boat traffic during weekday rush hours, 7-9 am and 4-6 pm. Other than that it can be hit or miss, but the traffic clears up pretty quickly after an opening so it's not worth worrying about. The bridge is typically open for four or five minutes at the most.

By the way, turn your engine off while you are waiting. There's not much point in wasting the gas while you are just sitting there.

[Bill Loney]

Originally Posted by sean98125

The Ballard Bridge only gets congested when it is opening for boat traffic. The Ballard Bridge doesn't open for boat traffic during weekday rush hours, 7-9 am and 4-6 pm..

Since when?

Maritime Traffic has the right of way if I'm not mistaken.

[nikdahl]

Originally Posted by Bill Loney

Since when?

Maritime Traffic has the right of way if I'm not mistaken.

Only if they are over 1000 gross tons.

Otherwise, the University, Fremont and Ballard bridges are closed during those times.

SDOT - Bridges and Roadway Structures

[Bill Loney]

Originally Posted by nikdahl

Only if they are over 1000 gross tons.

Otherwise, the University, Fremont and Ballard bridges are closed during those times.

SDOT - Bridges and Roadway Structures

Having lived in Ballard for over 20 years, I promise you it happens. And it happens a whole lot more than you might think.

Here's an example of a 1000 ton ship.

[motor80]

Originally Posted by Beat02

As compared to I-5.

Do you mean 15th Ave NW? Over the Ballard bridge? It's a draw bridge, so expect traffic, especially during summer - the height of boating season. There tends to be a bit of a bottleneck around the Nickerson St. exit/entrance (south end of bridge) and the Ballard entrance/exit north of the bridge. Nothing too major though.

[Beat02]

Yeah, 15th Ave NW. Thanks for the info.