Key Takeaways
- Travelers on westbound Interstate 90 near Cle Elum can expect significant disruptions starting Monday due to the replacement of the Bullfrog Road overpass
- The overpass is being replaced after a semi-truck carrying an over-height load collided with it in October, causing extensive damage
- Westbound lanes will be completely closed from Monday to Friday, with traffic rerouted via the off- and on-ramps at Exit 80
- The entire overpass replacement project is expected to be completed by the end of January 2026
Introduction to the Project
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has announced that travelers on westbound Interstate 90 near Cle Elum should prepare for significant disruptions starting Monday. The disruptions are necessary to facilitate the replacement of the Bullfrog Road overpass, which was damaged in October when a semi-truck carrying an over-height load collided with it. The collision caused extensive damage to the overpass, requiring its demolition and subsequent replacement. The project is expected to cause significant disruptions to traffic, and travelers are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.
The Replacement Project
The replacement project will involve the installation of new girders, which will require the complete closure of westbound lanes from Monday to Friday. During this period, all westbound traffic will be rerouted via the off- and on-ramps at Exit 80. Contractor crews will work to install the new girders, and officials urge travelers to remain vigilant for workers and detour signs in the area. The closure is necessary to ensure the safety of both the workers and travelers, and to prevent any further damage to the surrounding infrastructure. The project follows WSDOT’s preparatory work, which included mobilizing equipment, completing pier caps, and pouring girder stops and grout pads.
Expected Disruptions and Timeline
The disruptions are expected to continue for several weeks, with short-duration full and single lane closures anticipated in early January to finalize the project. The entire overpass replacement is expected to be completed by the end of January 2026, according to WSDOT. Travelers are advised to plan ahead, allow extra time for their journeys, and remain vigilant for workers and detour signs in the area. The project is a significant undertaking, and officials are working to minimize the disruptions to traffic while ensuring the safety of both the workers and travelers. The completion of the project will provide a safer and more reliable transportation infrastructure for travelers in the area.
Preparations and Safety Measures
Officials are urging travelers to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys. The closure of the westbound lanes will require travelers to take a detour via the off- and on-ramps at Exit 80, which may add significant time to their journeys. Travelers are also advised to remain vigilant for workers and detour signs in the area, and to follow all safety instructions and guidelines. The safety of both the workers and travelers is the top priority, and officials are working to minimize the risks associated with the project. The completion of the project will provide a safer and more reliable transportation infrastructure for travelers in the area, and officials are working to ensure that the project is completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the replacement of the Bullfrog Road overpass is a significant project that will require significant disruptions to traffic. Travelers on westbound Interstate 90 near Cle Elum should prepare for significant disruptions starting Monday, and plan ahead to allow extra time for their journeys. The project is expected to be completed by the end of January 2026, and officials are working to minimize the disruptions to traffic while ensuring the safety of both the workers and travelers. The completion of the project will provide a safer and more reliable transportation infrastructure for travelers in the area, and officials are working to ensure that the project is completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.
