The Hood Canal Bridge on State Route 104 is closed to all vehicle traffic indefinitely following a mechanical failure. The closure was announced by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Monday afternoon.
The closure began around 1 p.m. during a scheduled opening to allow marine vessels passage through Hood Canal. The bridge span is designed to open and close for boat traffic.
State transportation officials stated there is currently no estimated timeline for when the bridge will reopen to vehicles.
Crews are working at the site to diagnose and repair the problem. Additional engineers and technical experts are being consulted in an effort to identify the cause of the malfunction and determine a course of action.
The unexpected shutdown forces drivers to seek alternate routes. Those traveling between the Olympic and Kitsap peninsulas must use Highways 3 or 101 to travel around the southern end of Hood Canal.
This detour is estimated to add approximately three hours to travel times, according to WSDOT.
The Hood Canal Bridge serves as a primary transportation corridor connecting the Olympic and Kitsap peninsulas, particularly for access to the northern Olympic Peninsula region.
WSDOT stated that updates will be shared as new information becomes available regarding the status of the bridge and potential reopening.
The agency acknowledged the significant inconvenience the closure presents for area travelers. Efforts are focused on restoring vehicular service as quickly as possible.