Bridge strikes and transportation delays: A look at the challenges of 2025
We've highlighted some of the positive developments on our roads (https://mynorthwest.com/chokepoints/2025-wa-transportation/4173736) already. Now, it's time to address the less favorable aspects.
Bridge strikes: A recurring issue
2025 saw three significant bridge strikes involving over-height vehicles. These incidents not only damaged the bridges but also caused major disruptions for nearby communities.
- White River Bridge incident: In August, a truck damaged the White River Bridge (https://mynorthwest.com/chokepoints/white-river-bridge-5/4143777) on State Route 410 (SR 410) between Enumclaw and Buckley. This led to a 21-mile detour, cutting off these communities for several months.
- SR 167 bridge strike: In September, a driver forgot to lower the rear lift of their vehicle on 3rd Avenue in Pacific, damaging a girder under northbound SR 167 (https://mynorthwest.com/chokepoints/sr-167-bridge-2/4157164). Repairs are ongoing, but lane restrictions persist.
- Bullfrog overpass incident: A driver's failure to check their trip permit and follow the pilot car resulted in damage to the Bullfrog overpass (https://mynorthwest.com/chokepoints/bullfrog-overpass/4169153) on westbound I-90 in Cle Elum. Repairs are currently underway.
Washington State Patrol's guidance: According to Rocky Oliphant, a Washington State Patrol spokesperson, the rule is straightforward: "The maximum height for any vehicle on the road is 14 feet. If you exceed this, you need a permit. For heights over 14 feet 6 inches, a pilot car is required."
A related concern: Driver competence
It's becoming apparent that there are drivers who shouldn't be operating large trucks. This issue warrants further investigation and is a separate topic for another day.
Fairfax Bridge closure: A maintenance crisis
The Fairfax Bridge (https://mynorthwest.com/chokepoints/carbon-river-bridge-closure-indefinite/4076200) on State Route 165 (SR 165) over the Carbon River was closed in 2025 due to severely deteriorated steel supports, rendering it unsafe. This closure follows years of neglect in maintaining the 103-year-old bridge.
Cara Mitchell, a Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) spokesperson, stated earlier this year that the department lacks the funding to rebuild, replace, repair, or even dismantle the bridge. The state now faces a difficult decision: tear down the bridge or replace it. The latter option would preserve hiking access and support the town of Wilkeson.
I-405 widening project delays: A contractor's responsibility
The I-405 widening project (https://mynorthwest.com/chokepoints/i-405-widening-project/4163424) from Bellevue to Renton, scheduled to open by the end of 2025, has encountered significant delays. The project administrator, Lisa Hodgson, predicts completion in summer 2027, an 18-month delay.
WSDOT directly blames the contractor for the delay and is currently suing them for failing to meet their commitments.
Looking ahead: The road ahead
These challenges highlight the ongoing need for infrastructure maintenance and safety measures. As we move forward, it's crucial to address these issues to ensure a smooth and safe transportation network for all.
