MOUNT VERNON, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A bridge in Mount Vernon will be partially closed for a year as early as next week.

WSDOT said the Division Street Bridge will be closed as early as next Thursday, June 11 for a repainting project. Crews began to prepare the bridge—also referred to as the SR 536 Bridge and the West Mount Vernon Bridge—last weekend for the closure.

The yearlong closure will affect eastbound traffic and be completely closed for some planned weekend and weeknight closures. Emergency vehicles will still be able to use the bridge.

Eastbound drivers will need to go around the bridge using northbound Avon Allen Road, SR 20 and SB I-5.

A map of the westside of Mount Vernon and Burlington, WA as well as the Skagit River, detailing a detour route for travelers.
The alternate route for those seeking to use the eastbound side of SR 536 Bridge. Courtesy of WSDOT

The aging bridge was last painted in 1990.

Crews will now remove the old paint and debris and inspect for damage before painting the bridge a light grey color.

The bridge is expected to be fully reopened ahead of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival next April.