Westbound Tacoma Narrows Bridge repairs require two weeks of around-the-clock lane closures

Travelers will see backups on westbound SR 16 in Tacoma during peak commute hours

TACOMA - Travelers who use the westbound State Route 16 Tacoma Narrows Bridge to Gig Harbor and points beyond are encouraged to plan for two weeks of lane and ramp closures.

Starting at 5 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, Washington State Department of Transportation bridge crews will close the two right westbound lanes across the 76-year-old bridge to make temporary repairs to an expansion joint. The Jackson Avenue on-ramp to westbound SR 16 will also close. The around-the-clock closures will remain in place until Sunday, Nov. 8.

What to expect

During the repairs, travelers will see:

• Westbound SR 16 reduced from four lanes to two.
• The HOV lane open to all vehicles.
• Congestion on westbound SR 16 in Tacoma approaching the bridge and side streets.
• Delays of an hour or more from Tacoma to Gig Harbor during afternoon commute hours.

Drivers can help minimize delays by traveling outside afternoon commute hours, carpooling, and combining or postponing discretionary trips.

WSDOT recognizes that during the work, the afternoon commute on westbound SR 16 will be challenging and appreciates travelers' patience as crews make repairs. Afternoon commuters are advised to have a full tank of gas or fully charged vehicle before traveling from Tacoma to Gig Harbor.

More about the repair

The lane closures create a work zone for crews to make repairs to an expansion joint on the bridge. During the closure crews will remove a deteriorating portion of an expansion joint and replace it with a new piece. Afterward crews will pour concrete around the newly placed structure. Daylight is needed for crews working above and below the bridge deck.

Since 2024 there have been 11 emergency repairs to expansion joints on the westbound bridge. This work is the latest emergency repair. WSDOT has a project in design that will refurbish the bridge's expansion joints. WSDOT anticipates construction will occur in 2027. More details will be shared once a contract has been awarded.

Whenever near work zones, please:

• Slow down - drive the posted speeds for worker and traveler safety.
• Be kind - workers are out there helping to keep people safe and improve the roadways.
• Pay attention - both to workers directing travelers and surrounding traffic.
• Stay calm - expect delays, leave early or take alternate routes if possible; no meeting or appointment is worth risking someone's life.

Travelers are encouraged to sign up for email updates about work on WSDOT-maintained roads in Pierce County. Real-time traveler information is available from the WSDOT app and WSDOT Travel Center Map.