Parts of downtown Pullman closed today while Pine Street Bridge is moved

Downtown Pullman will close parts of Pine Street Plaza and the Bill Chipman trail today as construction crews relocate the Pine Street Bridge. The pedestrian bridge has been closed since February when flooding dislodged it from its footings, failing to pivot fully due to insufficient water levels. Designed to float during high water, this incident marks the first significant test of the bridge’s design since its installation 20 years ago. City officials anticipate reopening the bridge in August, pending final inspections and additional rock armoring. The affected areas, including a parking lot north of the bridge, will reopen by Wednesday after work and cleanup are completed.

This construction is crucial for ensuring the bridge's safety and functionality for pedestrians. The city’s proactive measures aim to restore access to vital downtown areas impacted by the bridge's closure. Addressing potential vulnerabilities in infrastructure is essential for maintaining community safety during extreme weather events.