UPDATE: West Seattle low bridge reopens after today’s second repair closure

(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.

(SDOT photo)

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.

8 Replies to "UPDATE: West Seattle low bridge reopens after today's second repair closure"

  • Chris January 23, 2025 (2:38 pm)

    I’m told from someone who just rode through that the cycle/pedestrian path is still open.

    • WSB January 23, 2025 (2:44 pm)

      Someone texted me that but I’m checking with SDOT as I’ve also seen someone turn around (on the live feed) – though just now, someone went through.

      • Chris January 23, 2025 (2:49 pm)

        Ah yep, that was me that texted you — thanks for the updates here!

  • Question Authority January 23, 2025 (2:58 pm)

    It may be related to cold weather as components shrink and bind or limit switches lose tolerance.  Issues happen in the heat of Summer as well, they actually spray water on all metal bridges to cool them.

    • Carole January 23, 2025 (6:24 pm)

      I’m going to question you.  And please stop blaming the weather.

  • Chuck January 23, 2025 (8:18 pm)

    Who lived in WS when it was known as the Spokane Street Bridge?

    • WSB January 23, 2025 (8:47 pm)

      Its official name remains the Spokane Street Swing Bridge. More people know it as “the low bridge,” so that’s how we (among others) refer to it – TR

    • Al King January 24, 2025 (3:34 pm)

      Chuck. I do. Kept a lot of people out of WS because of worry that the bridge would go up or a train would be crossing the street on Harbor Island and they’d be late for work/school/appointment. Was never a problem for anyone in our family.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published.