The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has announced significant lane reductions on southbound State Route 99 in Fife due to the demolition of an old bridge. Scheduled from 8 p. m. on January 21 to 3 p. m.

on January 23, the lane closure will impact traffic between 70th Avenue East and the Wapato Way roundabout. While southbound travelers can detour via a recently completed bridge over Hylebos Creek, WSDOT advises allowing extra travel time or considering alternate routes. Following the bridge demolition, southbound SR 99 will fully reopen, ensuring more efficient traffic flow. In addition, northbound traffic is expected to start using the new bridge as early as mid-February. This construction is part of the larger SR 167 Completion Project, which aims to improve regional transportation by creating a tolled highway from Interstate 5 to the Port of Tacoma, with an expected completion date of 2026.

The project addresses critical infrastructure needs and aims to enhance connectivity in the region. WSDOT emphasizes the importance of allowing additional travel time during the construction period to minimize delays.