Washington State this week went live with Smarter Highways on I-5, a high-tech traffic management system that provides drivers real-time traffic information on lane conditions.

Crews have installed a series of electronic speed-limit and lane status signs over each northbound lane on I-5 between Boeing Access Road and I-90 in Seattle. The signs will display speed limits from 40 to 60 mph, depending on traffic levels. The result will be fewer traffic collisions and less collision-related congestion.

The speed-limit signs also will alert drivers with a lighted arrow to warn of an approaching lane closure and a red 'X' at the closed lane to better manage blocking incidents. Electronic signs will display traffic alerts and information, such as backups and incidents ahead and alternate route suggestions.

Washington is one of the first states in the nation to implement this active traffic management system. It is expected to improve safety, reduce collisions and help relieve congestion by automatically alerting drivers to changing road conditions. It will also give drivers advance notice of incidents on the road ahead. In addition, the state patrol will enforce speed limits posted on the electronic signs.

"Improving people's lives by getting them out of congestion and to their jobs and homes safely is one of our most important goals," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

Smarter Highways is part of the Washington State Department of Transportation's congestion relief program, "Moving Washington," which will make highways more effective and prepare I-5 for increasing traffic demands once the Alaskan Way Viaduct project is under construction.

The project cost is $23.8 million, $17.5 million of which is federal funding.

More info at www.wsdot.wa.gov/smarterhighways/