The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) reduced the speed on westbound SR 16 after an overnight traffic realignment Friday near 19th Street.

Previously, the speed limit was 45 mph on the Nalley Valley Viaduct, increased to 55 mph on SR 16, then decreased back to 45 mph through the new Tacoma Narrows Bridge work zone.

WSDOT lowered the speed limit on westbound SR 16 to 45 mph from the Nalley Valley Viaduct to Olympic Drive in Gig Harbor.
“To keep our workers and drivers safe, we need to reduce the speed through this area,” said Tony Leingang, workzone traffic control coordinator.

Temporary signs indicating the change were installed Friday. The speed reduction will remain in effect through the summer construction season.

The eastbound speed limit will remain at 45 mph through the Tacoma Narrows Bridge work zone, and also remain 55 mph once drivers near Jackson Avenue.

For more information on the SR 16 Union to Jackson project, log on to http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/projects/piercecountyhov/sr16_olympic_union .