Crews will repair steel beams on the 1,978-foot-long bridge while travelers detour using the Riverside Bridge
HOQUIAM –Daytime travelers who use the 97-year-old US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge between Aberdeen and Hoquiam will want to plan additional travel time.
From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 27, through Thursday, Jan. 30, Washington State Department of Transportation bridge maintenance crews will close the Simpson Avenue Bridge to all traffic.
During the closure, the US 101 Riverside Bridge will be reconfigured to accommodate two-way travel. Travelers can expect congestion and some delays while the detour is in place.
About the work
Cracks were discovered in the aging steel beams underneath the bridge deck during a recent routine inspection. Crews will weld the cracks and reinforce the beams with steel plates during the closure.
The work requires daylight hours so crews can see in tight spaces underneath the bridge deck. Work is being performed when traffic volumes are lower to help minimize disruptions to travelers.
About the bridge
Built in 1928, the US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge is one of five moveable bridges in Grays Harbor County. It is 1,978 feet long and is one of two bridges that span the Hoquiam River, connecting the cities of Hoquiam and Aberdeen. In 1948, the bridge had its timber approaches and steel grated deck replaced. The bridges are exposed to weather and need constant upkeep. It is currently rated in poor condition and requires ongoing work to maintain its steel structure. On average, 14,760 vehicles use the bridge each day.
WSDOT regularly inspects bridges and categorizes them by condition. The condition scale is good, fair and poor. These condition ratings help plan inspections and schedule long-term repairs. WSDOT crews can and do close or restrict any bridge that is found not safe for travel.
As of June 2024:
- 229 WSDOT owned bridges were in poor condition.
- 315 WSDOT owned bridges are 80 years old or older.
A bridge is expected to have a service life of 75 years based on current standards. The average age of state-owned vehicular bridges is 51 years.
Before heading out the door, check the WSDOT app and statewide travel map for real-time information. Sign up for email updates to get the latest on road work in Grays Harbor County.