Obama's visit to Seattle expected to cause traffic tie-ups

While some of the details of President Obama's visit to Seattle on Thursday are being kept under wraps, the Seattle Department of Transportation is warning of possible traffic slowdowns.

Obama was to arrive Wednesday night. City streets near his hotel could be affected, although the name of the hotel has not been announced.

Obama is scheduled to appear at University of Washington's Hec Edmundson Pavilion on Montlake Boulevard next to Husky Stadium, at 11 a.m. Thursday.

Doors open there at 9 a.m.

Before the rally, the president will visit a private home in northeast Seattle and discuss economic issues facing women.

Freeway delays are expected when Obama leaves on Thursday after the UW event.

King County Metro has recommended that those attending the rally take buses because more than 15,000 people are expected.

During Obama's visit, only one Metro route will see changes. Route 70 will bypass its regular stop at Sixth Avenue and Virginia Street in downtown Seattle.

Metro said more than 15 bus routes travel to or near the UW campus and University District. To find a route go to www.kingcounty.gov/tripplanner.

In addition, the Federal Aviation Administration has established restricted airspace around Seattle during the president's visit.