LAKEWOOD, Wash. -- Just after 9:45 p.m. Sunday thieves cut the wire to a traffic signal and lighting at the Intersection of Bridgeport Way and Interstate 5 in Lakewood.

Drivers exiting I-5 unto Bridgeport Way encountered the dark traffic signal.

Washington State Department of Transportation crews made temporary connections to the traffic signal and got it working but will need to return at a later date to make a permanent fix.

According to the Washington State Patrol, they have noticed an increase of wire thefts in addition to a recent rise in theft of aluminum and steel bridge railing, guardrail, signal boxes and impact attenuators.

The WSP and WSDOT are working closely together to stop these crimes.

"These thefts create a safety issue, and also add a burden to taxpayers," said Don Clotfelter, maintenance manager.

WSDOT is self-insured so costs incurred replacing and repairing stolen material, as well as labor, comes from tax dollars. As an unexpected cost, it takes away from other maintenance and project funding.

Troopers ask if anyone in the area saw anything suspicious Sunday evening to contact the WSP or use a reporting form.