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Old bridge weight limits force bus detours; replacement design tied to fiscal year 2027 schedule
Summary
Officials said the deteriorating old bridge carries a weight limit that prevents school buses and some emergency vehicles from crossing; design and ownership transfer work is targeting FY2027 for project delivery.
Committee members were updated March 31 on plans to repair or replace an aging bridge on old Highway 100 and on steps needed to transfer ownership and begin design work.
A county representative said design solicitations have been sent to engineering firms and that an agreement with the county must be in place to convey ownership once the bridge is complete. The presenter said the project is currently in draft for the next fiscal cycle and estimated work would be in fiscal year 2027 (which begins July 1, 2026) for letting and award, with actual construction dates to follow.
Nut graf: The bridge currently has a posted weight limit that prevents school buses and some fire apparatus from using it; county and city staff said replacing the structure would restore full access and improve safety, but the schedule depends on commission approvals and budget timing.
Details: Committee members said the bridge’s condition has worsened and noted a posted weight limit in the mid‑teens of tons. Staff emphasized the importance of including the city of Washington in design coordination because school bus routing and emergency access are affected.
Next steps: Staff will continue design procurement, finalize an ownership agreement with the county after the new commissioner takes office, and work to keep the project in the draft capital plan for FY2027. The committee asked for updates as design advances.
Ending: Members expressed support for speeding work where possible and recognized the bridge’s current operational limits.
