Leaving the Rock for Memorial Day?

Washington state transportation officials are advising travelers to expect increased traffic over the holiday weekend.

Heavy ferry traffic is anticipated for the holiday and drivers should plan ahead to avoid delays.

According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, peak travel times on most routes are expected to be westbound Thursday, May 23 and Friday, May 24, and eastbound, Monday, May 27.

Check the Washington State Ferries website, www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/, or call toll-free 888-808-7977 for details, including reservations on some routes. Customers also can bypass vehicle lines by traveling as a walk-on passenger.

Most state highway construction work is suspended through the holiday weekend — including Monday, May 27 — to ease congestion.

No lane closures or other construction is planned on Interstate 90 from Friday, May 24, until to Tuesday, May 28. However, the usual holiday increase in traffic volumes means travelers should expect delays, especially eastbound on Friday, May 24, and westbound Monday, May 27.

Weekend toll rates will be in effect on Monday, May 27, on the Highway 520 bridge.

The Interstate 405 express toll lanes will be free and open to all drivers on the Monday holiday.

WSDOT offers ways to help travelers to plan ahead:

• Check WSDOT’s best times to travel charts to help plan your trip and avoid congestion;

• Visit online traveler information for traffic, weather and ferry schedules;

• Follow WSDOT’s social media accounts, such as Twitter and Facebook;

• Call 5-1-1 for updated road conditions; and

• Allow extra time for travel to avoid rushing or distraction.