DOT Aids in Washington Bridge Collapse
A portion of the four-lane highway collapsed on May 23, impairing commercial commute between Canada and Washington.
The Department of Transportation is releasing $15.6 million in federal funds to repair a bridge 60 miles north of Seattle, Wash. after it collapsed last month. The Interstate 5 bridge crosses the Skagit River and a four-lane section of the bridge collapsed into the water.
The bridge, which carries approximately 71,000 people each day, is one of the major commercial routes between Washington and Canada.
“We are making good on our promise to help the people of Washington in every way we can,” said Secretary LaHood, in a DOT statement. “These emergency funds are a major part of our commitment to restore mobility and expedite repairs as quickly as possible.”
These emergency funds will enable the building of a temporary bridge and will aid in the eventual repair of the collapsed portion.
“People and businesses have been impacted while this bridge is out of commission, and that hurts both the local and national economy,” said Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez. “We are providing the state with the federal support it needs to restore this critical link.”