SR 536 Bridge Closes Fully Nov. 1 to Cut 2027 Deadline

The State Route 536 Skagit River/Division Street Bridge in Mount Vernon will close to all passenger and freight vehicles in both directions on Sunday, Nov. 1. This full shutdown marks a shift from the partial eastbound closure that began in June, aiming to restore two-way access before the holiday season rather than waiting until early 2027.

The closure will last for a minimum of two weeks. Washington State Department of Transportation officials state that the uninterrupted access will allow contractor crews to speed up the completion of ongoing painting and preservation work. The bridge, which connects Mount Vernon’s downtown area with West Mount Vernon, has not been painted since 1990 despite its construction in 1953. WSDOT projects that the full closure will significantly reduce the time needed to finish the project.

Drivers must follow a signed detour using Interstate 5 and SR 20 in both directions once the bridge closes on Nov. 1. This route adds approximately 10 miles to travel plans between the two ends of the bridge. Emergency responders, pedestrians, bicyclists, and people using mobility devices will retain access across the bridge in both directions. WSDOT will announce the specific start time for the closure as the date approaches.

Weather conditions pose the primary risk to the projected timeline. Rain, wind, and cold temperatures could delay specific tasks or postpone work, potentially extending the length of the closure beyond the initial two-week estimate. Crews have attempted to complete most weather-sensitive work before the full closure begins, but remaining tasks such as sealing bridge joints and installing lane markings remain vulnerable to adverse conditions.

During the closure, construction teams will finalize the painting, repair the driving surface, and restore the bridge to its usual alignment with one lane of travel in each direction. They will also remove the containment system that has protected the Skagit River during the project. The sidewalk will remain open for most of the closure, though ADA-compliant shuttle vans will be available if construction necessitates a temporary walkway closure.

The eastbound closure that took effect on June 11 will remain in place until the full closure concludes. Temporary traffic signals at either end of the bridge currently serve only emergency vehicles and will not change for regular traffic. WSDOT will monitor progress through its regional X and Bluesky accounts, while real-time travel information remains available via the WSDOT mobile app and travel map.