CHOKEPOINTS

Bullfrog Road overpass near Cle Elum opens ahead of schedule

Jan 15, 2026, 5:04 PM | Updated: 5:24 pm

Bullfrog road overpass...

The Bullfrog Road overpass has opened ahead of schedule. (Photo courtesy of WSDOT)

(Photo courtesy of WSDOT)

The Bullfrog Road overpass near Cle Elum has opened ahead of schedule, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) announced Thursday.

Reopening of the overpass was originally slated for late January, but it is now open to traffic.

Bullfrog Road overpass damaged by oversized load

The overpass, above westbound I-90, was severely damaged by an oversized load in October. The driver, 64-year-old Allan Bergsma from Ontario, Canada, was issued a permit to carry the oversized load but did not follow the guidelines. He was subsequently cited for permit violations.

WSDOT, working with an emergency contractor, built the replacement span after the crash rendered the bridge unusable.

“Our contractor responded quickly and delivered under tight timelines,” WSDOT region administrator Brian White stated. “Their ability to rebuild this bridge safely allowed us to restore access for the local community in a matter of weeks while protecting the safety of everyone working on and traveling through the area.”

Crews complete project in 86 days

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson previously warned the replacement process could take months, but crews were able to complete the project in 86 days after the governor’s emergency authorization.

“We understand when major roads and bridges close, the impacts to communities and businesses are significant,” Ferguson stated. “Thank you to the WSDOT crews and contractors whose hard work restored this vital community connection weeks ahead of schedule.”

The replacement span was made with precast concrete beams to accelerate construction. Crews installed new barriers and completed the work needed to reopen the overpass.

Repairs cost around $8 million, according to WSDOT.

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