All traffic detoured via SR 112 and SR 113 during closure
PORT ANGELES – Crews are in the homestretch to open a new bridge over the Elwha River on US 101 west of Port Angeles.
To finish the new bridge, travelers will see an increase in construction work leading up to a nine-day closure of US 101.
Preparing for the closure
As early as Monday, June 24, US 101 between mileposts 239.36 and 239.93 will have around-the-clock one-way alternating traffic controlled by traffic signals. A signal will be near each end of the bridge. The speed limit will be reduced to 35 mph. The reduced speed limit will take effect once signs are uncovered.
WSDOT will confirm the start date of the one-way alternating traffic once the date is available from the contractor.
Closure schedule
US 101 at the Elwha River Bridge will close at 6 p.m. Friday, July 12. It will reopen at 5 a.m. Monday, July 22. During the closure, travelers will detour onto State Route 112 and SR 113.
The road closure will allow crews to build a section of highway approaching the new bridge and remove the portion approaching the old span.
New bridge opens at the end of the nine-day closure
After construction of the new highway section is complete, traffic will be routed onto it and the new Elwha River Bridge. The new span is 40 feet wide with two 12-foot lanes. The shoulders are 8 feet wide to accommodate people who walk or roll. The new bridge meets modern earthquake standards. It will also not need to be monitored during the rainiest parts of the year. Travelers will also notice a more gentle curve approaching the span.
Work continues after new bridge opens
Once the new span opens, crews will then begin demolishing the old bridge which is nearly a century old and has reached the end of its useful lifespan. They will also continue installing large woody material in the river. This helps restore the river to more natural conditions. The entire project is expected to be complete in the fall.
While travelers will see a lot of roadwork around the Olympic Peninsula this summer, WSDOT has tools to help everyone get where they are going. Travelers can sign up for email updates for projects in Jefferson and Clallam counties.
For the most up-to-date information, check the WSDOT app and statewide travel map.