CLE ELUM, Wash. – Travelers planning to cross the mountains for the holidays should be aware of upcoming construction on the Bullfrog Road overpass along I-90.
Recently, a truck exceeding height limits severely damaged the overpass, prompting the need for repairs. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) announced that construction to replace the damaged overpass will commence by the end of this month.
WSDOT bridge designers have completed plans to replace the overpass above westbound I-90. The project is moving quickly thanks to emergency authorization from Governor Bob Ferguson, covering the estimated $8 million repair cost.
Crews are expected to work throughout winter to reopen the overpass by January. To expedite the construction, WSDOT will use pre-built concrete support beams. Once these are set, crews will build the bridge walls and reopen the overpass.
However, drivers should anticipate several short-term full closures of westbound I-90 during this process. During closures, traffic will detour using the westbound off- and on-ramps at Exit 80. Additional detours are already in place, including Exit 85 for those heading toward Suncadia or Roslyn.
WSDOT will announce exact closure dates once they are scheduled. They are asking drivers for patience as crews work.
Crews will return in the spring to apply a final concrete overlay, which will require one more temporary closure.
