Seattle Bridge Closes For Seismic Upgrades, Reopens In 2021

SEATTLE, WA — The latest chapter in the "Seattle Squeeze" officially began Monday morning as the Fairview Avenue North Bridge closed for a total rebuild. The 65-year-old wooden bridge connects Seattle's bustling South Lake Union with the Eastlake neighborhood and other points north. Its closure cuts off a key route in and out of downtown for at least 18 months.

Seattle Department of Transportation officials said some of the wooden bridge's timber posts are decaying and concrete girders supporting its eastern half are cracked. The new bridge will meet current seismic standards, provide sidewalks on both sides and include a protected 2-way bike lane. The bridge's west side will also have three lookout points with views of Lake Union.

The city says the $27 million project is a critical investment in public safety, replacing Seattle's last surviving wooden bridge on a major road. Funds for construction came from the 2015 Move Seattle Levy, which earmarked money to upgrade three of the city's major bridges. Commuters who rely on the route, running parallel to the Lake Union Steam Plant, need to be aware of a number of detours and disruptions.

Fairview Avenue North is closed to all traffic, bicycles and pedestrians between Eastlake Avenue East and Aloha Street. Drivers can use Eastlake Ave East to get to Stewart Street or Howell Street. The city says drivers may also consider using State Route 99, Dexter Avenue North or Westlake Avenue North. King County Metro's Route 70 bus will now detour along Eastlake Avenue East via Aloha Street.

If everything stays on track, SDOT says the new bridge will open for traffic sometime in spring 2021. You can stay updated on the city's progress on the project's official page.