Inslee declares emergency for Lewis County in response to bridge damage

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Gov. Jay Inslee yesterday proclaimed a State of Emergency in Lewis County after an over-sized load caused damage to an I-5 overpass within the city of Chehalis.

"It's imperative that we quickly repair this critical stretch of the interstate," Inslee said. "I applaud our Department of Transportation, which responded to inspect the bridge, and revised travel across the structure to keep traffic off of the damage girders. We need a permanent solution and this proclamation will help our state get the resources to make the necessary repairs."

The incident occurred on Oct. 5th at mile post 76. Damages are estimated at $1 million.

In his proclamation, Inslee added that "these emergency conditions caused and continues to limit access to affected roadways for a significant period of time and will require the emergency procurement of a contractor to repair the damage."

The proclamation directs state agencies and departments to utilize resources and do everything reasonably possible to assist affected communities respond to and recover from the incident.

Media Contacts

Tara Lee
Governor Inslee’s Communications Office
360.902.4136