It’s now been two weeks since the bridge strike on SR 410’s White River Bridge. Since then, the Governor and King County have issued emergency declarations, making sure that we are getting the resources we need to keep moving. We’ve been in constant contact with Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), our local cities, and constituents to continue to provide updates about construction and detours so you can better plan your commute.
New WSDOT timeline for the White River Bridge
WSDOT will fabricate and install 5 temporary braces along the White River Bridge. These braces act as a support for the damaged sections keeping the weakened sections of the bridge from bearing the entire weight. Installation of the braces shouldbe complete by mid- to late-September. Once in place, traffic will re-open to one lane with alternating directions controlled by temporary signals, similar to how things worked on the Dan Evans/Green River Bridge on SR 169.
Due to the extensive damage, the bridge is unable to fully reopen until the permanent repairs are made. WSDOT engineers are continuing to develop a long-term plan, and we will be sure to share that when it is completed.
The pedestrian bridge is currently open for non-motor vehicle traffic. King County has provided lighting across the bridge and the parking lot to keep people safe. Our local cities and residents are working together, helping one another by crossing the pedestrian bridge and getting to where they need to go. Emergency vehicles are able to use the pedestrian bridge to get across if the need arises.
Other District Transportation work
Starting on Friday, Sept 5, I-90 Westbound in Issaquah will be reduced to a single lane, for up to four weekends this month. WSDOT will be repairing five bridges over these weekends. This is preventative maintenance and will extend the useful life of these bridges. You can read more about the closures here.