What You Need to Know: Bridge Demolition on SR 99 in Fife
Starting at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, January 21, the southbound lane of SR 99 in Fife will be reduced to one lane until 3 p.m. on Thursday, January 23. This closure runs from 70th Avenue East to the Wapato Way roundabout. The bridge demolition on SR 99 is part of the SR 167 Completion Project and may cause traffic delays.
Drivers will still use a newly constructed bridge over Hylebos Creek, but Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) advises travelers to plan alternate routes or allow extra travel time to avoid congestion, especially during peak hours.
Timeline of Events for SR 99 in Fife
- Bridge Demolition: Around-the-clock work will remove the old bridge.
- Lane Restoration: Crews will pave and reopen the closed lane by the afternoon of January 23.
- Northbound Traffic Shift: Expected to move to the new bridge in mid-February after sidewalks, gutters, and curbs are completed.
The Bigger Picture: SR 167 Completion Project
This bridge demolition on SR 99 is part of a broader project, WSDOT’s Puget Sound Gateway Program, which aims to connect SR 509 and SR 167 to I-5 and the Port of Tacoma. The project involves building a 6-mile tolled highway, which will open in phases through 2030. This new highway will improve freight mobility and fill critical gaps in Washington’s transportation network.
Impact on Travelers and Traffic
Expect potential delays during the 42-hour closure. Travelers are encouraged to:
- Use alternate routes like I-5 or other local roads.
- Check real-time traffic updates via the WSDOT Traffic App.
Why This Matters
The bridge demolition on SR 99 in Fife is a vital step towards enhancing transportation and freight connections in Western Washington. Though temporary disruptions may occur, the long-term benefits of safer and more efficient travel are worth the wait.