UW News

June 3, 2010

Expect commencement-related traffic congestion near Husky Stadium on June 12

UW Transportation Services advises motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians to avoid Husky Stadium on Saturday, June 12, due to the UW commencement ceremony beginning at 1:30 p.m.


With as many as 40,000 people expected to attend this year’s ceremony, the area around Husky Stadium will be congested the entire afternoon with both pedestrians and vehicles arriving and departing from the stadium between noon and 6 p.m.


At approximately 3:30 p.m., Seattle Police will begin to set up traffic controls which will close Montlake Boulevard between NE Pacific Street and NE 45th Street to through traffic to help move cars parked in the stadium lots away from the area after the ceremony. Traffic approaching the closure will be detoured around the area. This restriction, which is similar to traffic routing for Husky football games, will be in effect until about 5:30 p.m.


Because of the high number of pedestrians in the area, drivers are asked to be patient, drive slowly and, if not attending the event, consider taking alternate routes to their destinations. For those traveling south and needing access to the UW Medical Center, take 15th Ave. NE to NE Pacific Street. Montlake Boulevard will be closed from NE Pacific Street and NE 45th Street. Those traveling north may still travel across the Montlake bridge and turn left on NE Pacific Street, but should expect delays. Consider the University Bridge or the Ship Canal (I-5) bridge instead.


More transportation information for people attending the ceremony can be found online here.