What’s next for the bridge closed near Mount Rainier? Here’s how to find out
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Fairfax Bridge Closure
The 103-year-old bridge is closed to pedestrian and vehicle traffic after structural issues were found, cutting off a popular access to Mount Rainier National Park.
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The Washington State Department of Transportation is hosting two open houses in June following the closure of the state Route 165 Carbon River Fairfax Bridge.
According to a news release Monday afternoon, the open houses will be on June 2 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Carbonado School and on June 11 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Wilkeson Elementary School.
“Both sessions will include information about the WSDOT planning study underway after a permanent bridge closure,” the release said. “The planning study will develop data-driven recommendations to address long-term transportation needs for SR 165 across the Carbon River Valley.”
The News Tribune previously reported that the study is being funded through $1.5 million in state funding.
WSDOT also says there will be an online open house at engage.wsdot.wa.gov starting May 28. The online open house will have the same information as the in-person ones.
“Attendees are welcome to drop by anytime during the events. Project team members will be available to answer questions about the study and the options presented,” the release said. “The same information will be presented at both events, so participants can choose the one that best meets their schedules.”
They permanently closed the 103-year-old, single-lane bridge on April 22 because its steel beams were deteriorating, posing a safety risk. The bridge was the only way for the public to access key areas of Mount Rainier National Park from state Route 165, such as Tolmie Peak, Mowich Lake and Spray Park. The News Tribune previously reported that the closure followed years of deferred maintenance. WSDOT officials said the bridge had not been painted since 1988.
WSDOT previously told The News Tribune they are eyeing three options:
- Keeping the bridge closed and not replacing it.
- Building a replacement bridge in the same area.
- Re-routing state Route 165 to the east or west of Carbon River Canyon.
The News Tribune archives contributed to this report.
This story was originally published May 21, 2025 at 5:00 AM.
