Project overview
On Sunday, Nov. 14, 2021, an over-height load traveling northbound on I-5 struck and damaged the northbound span of the Koontz Road overpass between mileposts 69.35 and 69.48 in Lewis County.
After the strike, WSDOT bridge crews inspected the damage. They determined that the outer girder facing northbound traffic and the bridge-mounted sign bracket for the overhead sign needed to be replaced. For safety, traffic on the overpass was reduced to a single lane. Drivers took turns crossing in alternating directions.
On Sept. 18, 2023, contractor crews with Selby Bridge Company Inc. began removing and replacing the damaged girder and sign bracket. The work improved safety and restored this important connection between communities on both sides of I-5.
What to expect
Because demolition and girder installation took place directly above northbound I-5, the freeway was fully closed at times for safety. Travelers followed a signed detour. Crews also used occasional single-lane closures to install the containment system needed for demolition.
On Nov. 14, 2021, and over height load was traveling northbound on I-5 when it struck and damaged the Koontz Road overpass bridge, located between mileposts 69.35-69.48, in Lewis County. In Sept. 2023, contractor crews removed and replaced the damaged bridge girder, restoring full access along this overpass.
Built in 1976, the Koontz Road overpass spans across Interstate 5, in Lewis County, between mileposts 69.35-69.48. Serving approximately 42,000 vehicles a day, this bridge connects communities on the east and west side of the highway.
In Dec. 2015, and oversized load was traveling southbound on I-5 when it struck and damaged two bridge girders and a portion of the bridge deck. WSDOT bridge crews determined that the damage was severe and they fully closed the overpass until repairs could be made. In spring 2017 contractor crews began work to replace the two damaged bridge girders and repair the bridge deck, and the overpass was reopened to the traveling public in late spring 2017.
