A semi-truck transporting an excavator struck the bridge while traveling under it on eastbound I-90, damaging bridge girders and knocking loose concrete. (WSDOT photo)

Drivers of heavy vehicles who use the Danekas Road bridge to cross over Interstate 90 east of Ritzville will need to find an alternate route. Washington State Department of Transportation engineers reduced the bridge to one lane following damage from a bridge strike on July 10. Vehicle weight restrictions also are in place, with no over-legal-axle-weight loads allowed — including farm machinery.

An automated signal will direct alternating directions of traffic across the bridge through a single lane, which could be in place for several months until repairs are completed. The weight restrictions that prohibit vehicles over 105,500 lbs., with single axles not to exceed 20,000 lbs. and tandem axles not to exceed 34,000 lbs., also will remain in place until repairs can be made.

A semi-truck transporting an excavator struck the bridge while traveling under it on eastbound I-90, damaging bridge girders and knocking loose concrete. The interstate remains open, but some lane restrictions will be needed once repairs begin. WSDOT will use emergency contracts to complete the repairs, though details are not yet finalized.

By law, vehicle operators are responsible for knowing their vehicle height as well as bridge heights along their route. WSDOT's online Bridge Vertical Clearance Trip Planner tool provides a way to map a route for over height vehicles. The Washington State Patrol contacted the driver involved and WSDOT will seek to recover damages for the repair work.

Details about repair work, including cost estimates and any lane restrictions needed on I-90 will be announced as they are available.

Today's top stories

Florida's Sarasota Bradenton International Airport Sees $105M Terminal Expansion

Louisville Pump Station Receives $230M Update

Rokbak Haul Track Telematics Boost Uptime With Proactive Maintenance

SISO Air, InTerra Form Strategic Reseller Agreement

Hitachi Construction Machinery Wins Silver in 2024 Anthem Award

Balfour Beatty's Carolinas Operations Selected for Over $36M in Special Project Works

Caterpillar to Spotlight 'Next 100 Years' at CES 2025

Liebherr to Exhibit at World of Concrete 2025