Drivers face two-week bridge closure in Mount Vernon starting Nov. 1

The State Route 536 Skagit River Bridge will close to all passenger and freight traffic in both directions on Nov. 1. The Washington State Department of Transportation announced the full closure on Oct. 26. Work crews will use the two-week window to complete painting and preservation tasks on the structure.

The bridge connects downtown Mount Vernon with West Mount Vernon. It was built in 1953 and has not been painted since 1990. WSDOT stated that the full closure is necessary to expedite the completion of the project. The department aims to reopen the bridge to eastbound and westbound traffic about two weeks after the initial shutdown. This timing is intended to allow drivers to cross the river before the holiday season. Weather conditions, including rain, wind, and cold temperatures, could delay the work and extend the closure period.

Previously, WSDOT expected an eastbound-only closure to last until early 2027. The bridge first closed to eastbound passenger and freight vehicles on June 11. That restriction remains in place until the full closure ends. Under the new plan, the two-way access will be restored once the construction is finished.

Drivers will be rerouted to a signed detour using Interstate 5 and State Route 20. The detour adds approximately 10 miles to the trip from one end of the bridge to the other. WSDOT advised travelers to allow additional time for their commutes. Emergency vehicles will retain access across the bridge in both directions. Temporary traffic signals at the bridge ends are designated for these emergency vehicles only. They will not change for passenger or freight cars.

Pedestrians, bicyclists, and people using mobility devices will maintain access during the closure. The bridge sidewalk will remain open for most of the project. When construction requires closing the sidewalk, WSDOT will provide Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant shuttle vans. These shuttles will transport pedestrians, cyclists, and people using mobility devices across the river.

During the full closure, contractor crews will complete several specific tasks. They will paint the structure, repair the driving surface, and seal bridge joints. Crews will also install lane markings and remove the containment system that has protected the Skagit River during construction. The bridge will return to its usual alignment with one lane of travel in each direction. WSDOT will share progress updates through its regional X and Bluesky accounts. Real-time travel information is available via the WSDOT mobile app, the WSDOT travel map, or email updates.