The Washington State Department of Transportation will "complete a major rehabilitation of the Interstate 5 bridge" between Spokane Street and the I-90 interchange this summer.

This construction will significantly affect traffic near downtown Seattle, particularly during 19 continuous days of intense construction from Aug. 10 to Aug. 29 when crews will close several lanes of northbound I-5 at all times, including workdays, leaving only two or three lanes open to traffic. __

The northbound I-5 lane closures will push traffic onto other routes, including city streets in Georgetown, Sodo, Rainier Valley and Beacon Hill.

The department says it anticipates I-405 and State Route 99 will be popular freeway alternatives. Officials say they will encourage trucks to use I-405, East Marginal Way South and Airport Way South.

The department says to expect lengthy backups and significant delays and encourage drivers to visit their Web site.