The development of the first Interstate 5 (I-5) project in Lewis County, Washington has been completed.

The $52m widening and interchange project is expected too boost the Lewis County’s economy by providing network between Port of Chehalis and I-5.

The project will improve safety and reduce congestions at LaBree Road by diverting truck traffic from local roads to interstates, thereby reducing conflicts between pedestrians, passenger vehicles and freight traffic.

Washington Transportation Secretary Paula Hammond said that it is the first step in delivering $380m in improvements for I-5 in Lewis and south Thurston counties.

The project was started in July 2007 and completed ahead of schedule.