To finish the new Elwha Bridge, travelers will see an increase in construction work leading up to a nine-day closure of US 101.

As early as Monday, June 24, US 101 between mileposts 239.36 and 239.93 will have around-the-clock one-way alternating traffic controlled by traffic signals. A signal will be near each end of the bridge. The speed limit will be reduced to 35 mph. The reduced speed limit will take effect once signs are uncovered.

WSDOT will confirm the start date of the one-way alternating traffic once the date is available from the contractor.

US 101 at the Elwha River Bridge will close at 6 p.m. Friday, July 12. It will reopen at 5 a.m. Monday, July 22. During the closure, travelers will detour onto State Route 112 and SR 113.

The road closure will allow crews to build a section of highway approaching the new bridge and remove the portion approaching the old span.

After construction of the new highway section is complete, traffic will be routed onto it and the new Elwha Bridge. The new span is 40 feet wide with two 12-foot lanes. The shoulders are 8 feet wide to accommodate people who walk or roll. The new bridge meets modern earthquake standards. It will also not need to be monitored during the rainiest parts of the year.

Once the new span opens, crews will then begin demolishing the old bridge. They will also continue installing large woody material in the river. This helps restore the river to more natural conditions. The entire project is expected to be complete in the fall.