US 97 - Satus Creek Bridge - Bridge Replacement

Needs & benefits

Built in 1959, the US 97 - Satus Creek Bridge has served the community for more than 60 years. The bridge has been deemed structurally deficient and has reached the end of its useful life due weather, wear and tear from the traveling public and damage caused by the scouring effects of Satus Creek to the bridge piers over the last several years.   

As a result, in summer 2020, WSDOT's contractor, Cascade Bridge, LLC., will begin work to replace the existing two-lane concrete slab bridge which is located within the Yakama Nation Reservation between Indian Service Road and Wilson Charley Road (mileposts 30.72 - 30.96) in Klickitat County.  

This bridge is a vital connector along this stretch of highway and sees approximately 3,900 vehicles daily, including freight vehicles. Currently, due to the structural deficiency of the bridge, there is a weight restriction in place which limits the weight of vehicles crossing to no more than 20,000 lbs. per axle. This weight restriction severely limits many freight vehicles from crossing the bridge and forces them to use an alternate route, which often slows traffic down and causes delays.

To mitigate these delays, improve safety and to ensure the transport of goods and services, this project will replace the aging and failing bridge with a new concrete structure that meets current standards and can accommodate all legal loads for many years to come. 

• Safety - The new concrete bridge will replace the existing structure and will meet current bridge safety and functionality standards.
• Mobility - The new US 97 - Satus Creek Bridge will accommodate all legal loads, eliminating the current weight restriction.