As 2025 draws to a close, it’s impossible not to look back at the year in transportation and think, 'What a wild ride it’s been—and not in a good way.' From maddening delays to skyrocketing costs, this year has served up some truly ugly moments that have left commuters shaking their heads in disbelief. Let’s dive into the chaos, starting with what many are calling the 'Month of Hell.'
But here's where it gets controversial... Was it really as bad as everyone says, or did we just forget how to adapt? Back in [insert month], northbound I-5 between State Route 520 and 45th in the U-District faced 32 days of closures—a nightmare that lived up to its ominous nickname. Two lanes were shut down across the Ship Canal Bridge, and the express lanes stubbornly stayed northbound, turning southbound I-5 into a parking lot. And this is the part most people miss: the backups weren’t just bad—they stretched all the way to Edmonds, with hour-long delays into Seattle becoming the norm. Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) spokesperson Tom Pearce acknowledged the pain, saying, 'We know it was difficult, but people adapted well.' Yet, with eight months of similar closures looming next year (split into two four-month chunks, mercifully pausing for the World Cup in June and July), it’s hard not to wonder: Are we ready for round two?
Next up on the ugly list: gas prices in Washington. While the rest of the U.S. enjoyed a national average of $2.85 per gallon, Washington drivers were slapped with a staggering $3.94—over a dollar more. Here’s the kicker: the gas tax hike of 6 cents in July and the Climate Commitment Act’s additional $0.40 to $0.50 per gallon have collectively raked in over $4 billion. But where’s the impact? Studies reveal that 70% of the funds have gone to staffing and planning, not climate solutions. The state claims $1.5 billion has funded projects like charging stations, but there’s little data to show it’s actually reducing carbon emissions. Five years after the Act, we’re still waiting for results. Is this a step forward or a costly misstep? Let’s debate that in the comments.
Finally, let’s talk about Sound Transit, the repeat offender on this ugly list. While they did expand light rail capacity this year, it’s become painfully clear they’re running out of money to deliver on their promises. Projects are delayed, budgets are bursting, and costs are spiraling out of control. What was supposed to cost $54 billion under ST-3 in 2016 could now balloon to $185 billion. Sound Transit admits to a $30 billion shortfall today, and with projects only getting pricier, many are asking: Is it time to scale back or cut our losses? All this for a system that will serve just 1% of commuters. Is it worth it? Share your thoughts below.
As we wrap up this ugly recap, one thing’s certain: 2025 has been a year of transportation trials. But hey, at least we’ve got plenty to talk about—and plenty to look forward to (or dread) in the years ahead. For more insights, follow Chris Sullivan’s traffic reports on KIRO Newsradio and stay updated on X (@KIROTraffic).
