Pullman, Wash. – The Pine Street Pedestrian Bridge will undergo essential repairs after the City Council approved a contract with Halme Builders on October 13. The project focuses on fixing the damaged north abutment and restoring the bridge to full service before the close of the year.
Project details and timeline
The city’s Public Works Department outlined that the bridge, a key connector for students, commuters, and residents walking between the downtown area and the university campus, suffered structural issues that required immediate attention. The north abutment, which supports the bridge’s western end, showed signs of wear that could compromise safety if left unrepaired.
Halme Builders, a regional contractor with experience in municipal infrastructure, will begin work in early November. The contract includes demolition of the compromised portion, reinforcement of the abutment with new concrete and steel supports, and reinstallation of the bridge deck. The city expects the bridge to be fully operational by December 31, 2026.
Community impact
City officials emphasized that the bridge is heavily used by pedestrians and cyclists, especially during the university’s fall semester. “Keeping this crossing safe and functional is a top priority for Pullman,” said Public Works Director Maria Lopez. “The repairs will minimize disruption and ensure that residents can continue to rely on this vital route.”
During the construction period, the city will provide temporary signage and a detour route that directs foot traffic to nearby streets. Public Works will monitor the detour to address any safety concerns promptly.
Funding and oversight
The repair project is funded through the city’s capital improvement budget, which allocates resources for infrastructure maintenance and upgrades. The City Council reviewed the budget request at its meeting on October 10 and approved the $1.2 million contract without opposition.
City Councilmember James Whitaker, who represents the district surrounding the bridge, noted that the timely approval reflects Pullman’s commitment to maintaining safe public spaces. “Our community depends on reliable infrastructure,” Whitaker said. “This project demonstrates responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars and a focus on the everyday needs of our families.”
Next steps
Public Works plans to share additional details about the repair schedule at the City Council meeting on Tuesday, October 27. Residents are encouraged to attend the meeting or visit the city’s website for updates, including any changes to the detour route.
The city will also post regular progress photos on its social‑media channels, allowing the community to track the work as it moves forward. By completing the repairs before the winter months, Pullman aims to avoid weather‑related delays and ensure the bridge remains safe for all users.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
