Introduction
In the wake of the damage to the Interstate 90 (I‑90) overpass at Bullfrog Road overpass just west of Cle Elum in Kittitas County, Washington, local officials are calling for what they term an “I‑90 overpass replacement pause” — a modest delay of the immediate rebuild to allow a more strategic examination of the corridor’s long‑term traffic, freight, and infrastructure needs.
The overpass was struck on October 21, 2025, by an oversized truck load, prompting state emergency declarations, demolition of the damaged span, and reopening of traffic lanes. 92.9 ZZU (KZZU FM)+1 While the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has moved into emergency reconstruction mode, county and city leaders say now is the time to think bigger about I‑90’s future through the region.
The Incident & Emergency Response
On the night of October 21, 2025, an over‑height load struck the Bullfrog Road overpass (Bridge 90/133) over westbound I‑90 in Kittitas County. The collision caused structural damage severe enough that WSDOT engineers determined the overpass could not be repaired and must be demolished. News Radio 560 KPQ+1
Governor Bob Ferguson declared a state of emergency for Kittitas County, allowing for emergency contracting and access to federal relief funds. governor.wa.gov+1 Westbound I‑90 lanes reopened on October 24 after a nonstop 22‑hour removal of the damaged span. Washington State DOT+1
In a news release, WSDOT noted that engineers are now designing replacement options for the overpass, with more updates expected in December. governor.wa.gov
Local Officials’ Request: A Pause to Think Long‑Term
Rather than pushing ahead with a rebuild purely focused on restoring what was lost, county officials — supported unanimously by the Cle Elum City Council — are asking for an intentional pause. They argue that the overpass replacement presents an opportunity to align repair work with broader strategic improvements along I‑90 between Easton and Exit 85.
Key elements of their request include:
- Avoiding a short‑term fix that may hinder future corridor improvements.
- Incorporating modernization of the I‑90 eastbound weigh station at Bullfrog Road.
- Improving access/egress to the WSDOT maintenance facility near Bullfrog.
- Evaluating a possible permanent watercraft inspection station (for lake access nearby).
- Considering additional truck parking capacity in the area.
- Recognizing that roughly 17,000 vehicles travel this I‑90 segment daily and about 1,500 cross the Bullfrog Road overpass each day. governor.wa.gov+1
They note how when I‑90 was closed after the crash, downtown Cle Elum became congested and “our city becomes truck parking,” said Mayor Matthew Lundh.
In short: the local leaders are saying — let’s rebuild the bridge and use this as a catalyst to upgrade the corridor for the future, rather than simply rebuild to the status quo.
If you or someone you love has been injured as a result of the negligence of another on I‑90, it’s important to understand your legal rights. Whether the harm arose from a traffic accident, hazardous detour conditions, or issues related to road construction, you may be entitled to compensation.
Contact Blanford Law today at ken@blanfordlaw.com or 253‑720‑9304 for experienced legal representation.
Additional Resources
- Prelicense Training Requirements for Recovery Agents in Washington
This article outlines the mandatory prelicense training and certification steps for individuals seeking to become recovery agents under Washington law.
Read more - I-90 Head-On Collision Injures Cle Elum Couple
A Cle Elum couple was seriously injured in a head-on crash on I-90; the article explores legal recourse for victims in such accidents.
Read more - DUI Charges in Cle Elum, Washington: What You Need to Know
Learn about DUI laws specific to Cle Elum, including penalties, legal procedures, and how to protect your rights if charged.
Read more - Minimum Education Requirements for Recovery Agents (WAC 308-19-320)
This post reviews the state regulations on minimum educational qualifications required for recovery agents in Washington.
Read more - Understanding Brief Adjudicative Proceedings and Records
This article breaks down what constitutes a brief adjudicative proceeding in Washington and how such records are handled legally.
Read more