White River Bridge damaged by semi truck opening weeks ahead of schedule

The White River Bridge will reopen on October 17th, weeks ahead of schedule thanks to “a little luck.”

The bridge between Enumclaw and Buckley, Washington was closed on August 18th, when a semi truck crashed into the bridge, causing structural damage. 

The bridge was previously expected to reopen between October 31st and November 15th, but “a little luck” with weather conditions and prompt material deliveries has brought the reopening up to October 17th, weeks ahead of schedule. Final inspection will be performed that day, and the bridge will be reopened between 5 p.m. and midnight, depending on the completion of final inspections, reported King 5.

Crews have been working to repair the bridge seven days a week, as the roadway is a critical link between the two towns. Detours caused by the bridge added about 38 miles to drivers needing to get from one to the other. 

Governor Bob Ferguson declared an emergency proclamation at the closure of the White River Bridge due to its importance. Because of the proclamation, the state will be able to seek federal reimbursement for the cost of repairs.