WSDOT shuts down 103-year-old bridge in Tacoma, WA

The Carbon River Fairfax bridge in Tacoma, a historical structure built in 1921, has been closed indefinitely by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) due to alarming structural integrity issues. This closure impacts both pedestrian and vehicular traffic, following a series of lane restrictions and a ban on emergency vehicles previously utilizing the bridge. Exceeding the typical 75-year service life expected for bridges in Washington, the Fairfax bridge has shown significant deterioration, prompting urgent action. A WSDOT representative stated, "There is no funding available to replace the bridge at this point," emphasizing a systemic issue of insufficient preservation funding. The average age of state-owned bridges in Washington is 51 years, highlighting the challenge of maintaining infrastructure in the face of budget constraints.

The indefinite closure not only affects local transportation but also raises concerns about public safety and emergency response capabilities. As Tacoma grapples with this critical infrastructure issue, the need for increased funding and strategic planning becomes ever more pressing. The situation exemplifies a broader challenge facing many communities in the U. S. regarding aging infrastructure and the resources needed for its upkeep.