Motorists should take detours around this Thurston County bridge this summer. Here’s why
Thurston County plans to close Black Lake-Belmore Bridge for several months so crews can work on “significant repairs.”
The 60-foot bridge on the east side of Black Lake near Percival Creek will be closed from June 17 to mid-October, according to a Monday news release.
Over 5,000 vehicles use the bridge every day, according to the county’s Public Works department website. The bridge, built in 1992, has reportedly experienced “significant settling of the concrete slabs at both ends,” creating problems for cars and bicyclists. The release says the closure is needed to address safety concerns and maintenance issues.
“The concrete slabs have settled by more than 2 feet, leading to a poor transition onto the bridge and posing preservation concerns and safety risks for all traffic, including trailers and motorcyclists,” the project website says. “This settlement has worsened over the past decade and will continue without intervention.”
Crews will work to stabilize the roadway between 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, according to the release. To achieve that, crews will reportedly drive hundreds of timber piles and install a geogrid. Locals can expect to hear a “significant” increase in noise during construction hours.
Thurston County advises northbound travelers to take the following detour.
- Head southwest on Black Lake Belmore Road Southwest toward Sapp Road Southwest.
- Continue onto Sapp Road.
- After 1.24 miles, turn left onto RW Johnson Boulevard Southwest.
- Continue onto 21st Avenue Southwest.
- After 1..7 miles, turn left onto Black Lake Boulevard Southwest.
Meanwhile, southbound travelers are advised to take the following detour.
- Head northeast on Black Lake Boulevard Southwest.
- After 1.7 miles, turn right onto 21st Avenue Southwest.
- Continue onto RW Johnson Boulevard Southwest.
- After 1.24 miles, turn right onto Sapp Road Southwest.
- Continue onto Black Lake Belmore Road Southwest.
The news release says the county will post reader boards and signage to inform the public about the closure and detour routes.
“This project is a critical part of Thurston County’s commitment to keeping its roadways safe and functional for all users,” the release says. “We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as we undertake these necessary improvements.”
