(Screengrab from SDOT camera)
2:24 PM: The West Seattle low bridge is out of service again – second time today. We mentioned the first round of trouble early this morning in our daily traffic roundup; it was back in service just after 7 am. Now it’s malfunctioning again, so if you were headed that way, use another route. (We know that’s easier said than done for bicycle/foot path users.)
2:45 PM: A commenter notes that bicycle riders are getting through, and we just saw that happen via the live feed, but we’re also checking with SDOT to verify.
3 PM: SDOT spokesperson Ethan Bergerson verifies that riders/walkers/runners/etc. CAN use the path. The motor-vehicle lanes remain closed.
5:17 PM: No change – vehicle lanes still closed. In response to our question about what’s wrong, SDOT sent this:
(The closure is) due to a broken motor affecting the bridge locking mechanism. The bicycle and pedestrian path is currently open. SDOT technicians are on site working to fix the issue as quickly as possible, and do not yet have an estimated timeline for reopening.
This issue is unrelated to previously identified maintenance needs on the Spokane St Bridge. We are continuing to make progress with our ongoing series of investments to maintain and modernize the bridge structure and components:
-Bridge strengthening (complete)
-Earthquake safety upgrades (complete)
-Control and communications system upgrades (complete)
-Cylinder, hydraulic, and electrical component upgrades (ongoing)
6:50 PM: Fully open again, SDOT says.
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