The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has announced upcoming lane closures on the Tacoma Narrows Bridge to facilitate routine inspections and necessary maintenance. Scheduled from September 23 to 26, the closures will affect two westbound lanes during daytime hours, with the right lanes closed on the first two days and the left lanes on the latter. WSDOT emphasizes that all lanes will be reopened before the afternoon commute, aiming to alleviate concerns from previous emergency closures that caused significant backups. The inspections, which occur every two years, require daylight for thorough assessment and are crucial for ensuring the bridge's safety and integrity. Additionally, maintenance teams will utilize this time to repair or replace bolts on bridge joints and address any other issues that may arise.

Commuters are advised to prepare for potential delays and adjust their travel plans accordingly. The department's proactive approach highlights its commitment to maintaining infrastructure while minimizing disruptions to daily traffic. Overall, WSDOT's careful planning and communication serve to enhance safety and reliability for all bridge users.