TACOMA, Wash. — Two lanes of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge are closed until further notice for emergency repairs.
The lanes will be closed until at least Thursday afternoon, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). The closure reduces westbound state Route 16 to two lanes over the bridge.
New concrete was poured Tuesday. However, it takes at least 48 hours to cure, according to WSDOT.
Drivers should expect delays during rush hour traffic. WSDOT is advising people to either leave earlier or later than usual to avoid congestion, carpool, or work remotely, if that is an option.
The closure comes after WSDOT discovered an issue with a bridge joint during a routine inspection on Monday. Further inspection by bridge crews prompted WSDOT to close the two impacted lanes for the safety of travelers. The bridge remains safe for travel in the remaining lanes, according to WSDOT.
The Narrows Bridge was built in the 1950s. It is the fifth-longest suspension bridge in the United States. It was designed to carry 60,000 vehicles a day, but currently is handling over 90,000.
WSDOT asks drivers to remember work zone safety during the closures.
Here's what they want drivers to know:
Whenever near work zones please:
- Slow down – drive the posted speeds, they're there for your safety.
- Be kind – our workers are out there helping to keep you safe and improve the roadways.
- Pay attention – both to workers directing you and surrounding traffic.
- Stay Calm – expect delays, leave early or take alternate routes if possible; no meeting or appointment is worth risking someone’s life.