Editor’s note: Edited on June 5, 2024 at 12:53 p.m. to reflect updated bus route information. 

BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – The Bellingham Public Works Department has announced that the bridge on Electric Avenue above Whatcom Creek is closed to all vehicle traffic as of June 3.

During a routine inspection, the city found more “critical” structural issues with the bridge than initially expected. Public Works then announced the closure, stating that the bridge many Bellingham residents use would be closed for at least two weeks.

The city recommends drivers use Woburn Street as an alternate route instead of Electric Avenue.

Meanwhile, the Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) says bus route 525 will be detoured in both directions. All stops on Electric Avenue except for the bus shelter at Whatcom Falls Park will be closed, as well as the stops on Alabama Street between Electric and Woburn Avenues. If riders have any questions, they should contact the WTA customer service team.

Although the bridge is closed to vehicle traffic, pedestrian and bike traffic will remain open.

“We understand this closure will cause inconvenience,” said Eric Johnston, Public Works Director, “but the safety of our community is paramount. The bridge will be closed while we develop a plan to get traffic moving safely across Electric Avenue as soon as possible.”

The bridge, originally constructed in 1959, will be rebuilt to widen the roadway by adding sidewalks and separated bike lanes with the existing two lanes of vehicle traffic.

The Public Works Department states that they are working on a temporary solution to allow single-lane traffic on the bridge as soon as possible.