The bridge on Electric Avenue at Whatcom Creek has partially reopened to traffic after closing suddenly on June 3 due to structural failures.
One lane of the bridge is now open, with alternating traffic controlled by temporary traffic signals, according to a city press release. Vehicles above 24 tons are not permitted on the bridge, built in 1959.
“This temporary solution is necessary due to critical structural issues identified in a recent inspection,” the release states. “The City prioritized public safety and immediately closed the bridge to all traffic to ensure public safety. The temporary traffic plan is designed by engineers to minimize stress on the affected area of the bridge.”
Public works is warning people to expect delays. Pedestrian access remains open on the bridge, and bicycles must share the traffic lane and abide by traffic signals.
Route 525 will resume regular service with access to the bridge starting Wednesday, June 12, according to Whatcom Transportation Authority.
Last week, during an inspection, public works found damage to one of the bridge’s timber pile cap beams, resulting in “crushing and bulging.” Public works communications and outreach coordinator Riley Grant told CDN last week that it indicated a “complete loss of the cap’s ability to support weight.”
Funding for the full rebuild of the bridge is already in the planning stages, with the project included in the city’s six-year Transportation Improvement Program.
Charlotte Alden is CDN’s general assignment/enterprise reporter; reach her at charlottealden@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 123.
