Commuters who use the Tacoma Narrows Bridge will need to prepare for extensive delays throughout the week due to emergency lane closures.

The bridge’s HOV lane will operate unrestricted to all vehicles during the lane closures with WSDOT hoping to alleviate some of the increased traffic buildup. A timeline of closure from May 13-17 was provided via social media.

The state Department of Transportation says in a May 13 statement the right two lanes of the westbound bridge towards Gig Harbor and Kitsap County will be closed to repair a damaged expansion joint. Crews discovered the issue in a routine inspection that day, prompting state and regional crews to close the lanes at the bridge joint.

Repairs will be followed by the pouring of new concrete. WSDOT says, “The concrete requires an extended curing time, which means travelers can expect the lane closures to remain in place for several days.”

Drivers are being asked to slow down, be kind and pay attention to the road as crews work to make the repairs. WSDOT has assured the public that the bridge remains safe for travel in the remaining lanes.