The Hansen Road overpass over I-90 in Moses Lake is being replaced, with demolition starting July 27, 2026, and the new bridge expected to open by December 2026.

Project Overview

The Hansen Road overpass, originally built in 1958 and refurbished in 1992, was closed on January 17, 2026, due to significant deterioration of the bridge deck and pier caps, including chloride contamination and rebar damage, making temporary repairs unfeasible . The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) opted for full replacement rather than repair to ensure long-term safety and durability .

Construction Timeline

• July 7, 2026: Construction crews began preparatory work on the existing overpass, including intermittent weekday lane closures .
• July 27, 2026: Demolition of the old bridge commenced, requiring full closures on I-90 for several days with detours in place .
• Mid-August 2026 – December 2026/January 2027: Construction of the new bridge continues with single-lane closures 24/7. The new bridge is designed with central columns for easier maintenance and a projected lifespan of approximately 75 years .
• December 2026: Expected opening of the new bridge to traffic .

Traffic Management and Detours

During demolition and construction, traffic is rerouted to minimize disruption:

• Eastbound I-90: Use Hiawatha Road at exit 169 and the frontage road to access the south side of I-90 .
• Westbound I-90: Cannot access the south side directly; drivers must use exit 169 at Hiawatha Road and turn around .
• Signage guides travelers through the construction zone, and access to the south side remains open for eastbound traffic .

Structural and Design Considerations

The new bridge incorporates modern engineering principles:

• Central columns as main supports for cost efficiency and easier maintenance .
• Designed to handle standard load ratings, including emergency vehicles .
• Construction integrates advanced planning and monitoring to ensure safety and minimize traffic disruption .

Broader Context

The closure of the Hansen Road overpass has highlighted the need for additional east-west crossings in Moses Lake to prevent congestion and ensure emergency response access. The city is pursuing studies for a potential second lake crossing to improve transportation resiliency and support regional economic growth . This project demonstrates a combination of urgent infrastructure replacement and long-term planning to enhance safety, traffic flow, and structural reliability in the region.