Another bridge project almost done: Highway 99 ‘timber bridge’ expected to open early

SR 99 timber bridge replacement 2013-12-21

(December photo by LB Bruce, shared via the WSB Flickr group)
Though Highway 99 is having trouble underground, projects on and above the surface are making progress. After Wednesday’s announcement that the Atlantic St. Overpass is about to open, we asked WSDOT on the progress of the Timber Bridge/Spokane Street Overcrossing replacement south of the West Seattle Bridge. When work began last February, WSDOT projected it would last until June of this year; now, spokesperson Broch Bender told WSB today, they “hope to open the new bridge by mid-March.” Before then, an overnight closure is planned February 8-9, both directions of 99 at that spot, hours not yet finalized, to connect the two sides of the new bridge, before the final phase of work.

4 Replies to "Another bridge project almost done: Highway 99 'timber bridge' expected to open early"

  • wscommuter January 23, 2014 (10:54 pm)

    I’m just waiting for the usual cast of anti-government/transportation/progress/whatever snarky commenters to show up and acknowledge that sometimes WSDOT gets it right. The good news is never talked about the way the bad news is. Thanks WSB.

  • wsea January 24, 2014 (8:01 am)

    This is a huge win. The overpass will help prevent backups with trains.

  • Alki Res January 24, 2014 (11:03 am)

    Sure will ease up current back ups on E. Marginal and 1st So. bridge and also SR-99 sourhbound. This is a replacement of a old wooden support structure and really little to do with railroad tracks. The UP does operate in the area though from their ARGO yard to the “Shoreline” tracks.
    Dreaming here, but wouldn’t it be nice to have an elevated 99 continuation above Marginal all the way to the 1st Ave So. Bridge?

  • redblack January 25, 2014 (9:09 am)

    wscommuter: WSDOT usually gets it right. those guys work dilligently and efficiently and we owe them our thanks.
    .
    the “deciders?” not so much.
    .
    the south-end viaduct project is a great improvement and i’m glad it’s going well. it will be great to exit 99 onto king street, or use alaskan way as an alternate. and all ahead of schedule.
    .
    i have an idea: let’s discuss the projects and their merits without discussing each other.

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