• Creates a direct port-to-valley route for truckers and improves safety on I-5/Southcenter Hill by reducing the number of trucks climbing slowly up the grade by an estimated 15 percent.

• Reduces accidents by shifting more travel onto freeways and off arterials and local streets.

• Shortens traveling distances, reducing the amount of vehicles and congestion on regional routes.

• Over 50,000 vehicles per day will use this shorter, higher speed, and more direct route, resulting in lower emissions, cleaner air, and reduced fuel consumption.

• Previous project work has already enhanced the environment through the construction of new wetlands and contributions to water quality and habitat improvements for the Des Moines Creek basin.