FOLLOWUP: SDOT sets dates for closing West Seattle low bridge to replace gate

| Transportation | West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

(SDOT traffic camera image in aftermath of Sept. 14, 2024 crash)

In our coverage last week of three consecutive evenings’ low-bridge breakdowns, we noted that SDOT expected to have to close that bridge for repairs. They’ve just announced the dates – but note that only the driving lanes will be closed:

We will close the Spokane Swing Bridge (also known as the Low Bridge) to replace the barrier gate at the bridge’s west side. During this time, people will not be able to drive across the bridge. However, people will still be able to walk, bike, or roll across as we do our work.

When?

Between 7 am Saturday (August 22) and 4 am Monday (August 24)

Why?

As a result of the September 2024 vehicle collision, the entire barrier gate system has been having issues. We will be replacing the barrier gate at the west side of the bridge. We hope to replace the east side barrier gate in the coming months, as we work with the railroad companies to coordinate a time for the work. Stay tuned for more updates in the coming weeks.

This bridge is a crucial link across the West Duwamish Waterway, especially for people walking, rolling, and biking. Thanks to the entire West Seattle community and Low Bridge travelers for being patient.

Admiral2009 August 6, 2026 (5:41 pm)

Is the vehicle driver that caused the damage being required to pay for the damages?

Rob August 7, 2026 (7:15 am)

That would be worth looking into. And that’s if the driver had insurance. Some states require a yearly auto inspection making sure the car or truck is safe for the road. It also includes proof of insurance. Up to date registration. Then a sticker is placed on the rear bumper to show you have done this. Our state doesn’t require this.
- GLH August 8, 2026 (8:08 pm)
  
  Having lived in a state that required vehicle inspections: it’s mostly just a scam to get you to pay 30-50 bucks to someone who looks at your windows. I have a non compliant vehicle and I paid “tipped” to get it passed. We should be ensuring insurance, but yearly inspections aren’t the way to do it.

Annoyed August 6, 2026 (5:50 pm)

The gate that was hit and causing all the problems is the east side gate and not the west side gate. I would chalk this up to a mistake but they have repeatedly mentioned that it’s the west side gate in many communications. They said they would replace the east side gate in the next few months which is very concerning.