Photo by Eric Ayres City and state officials are hoping that work will soon begin on the highly anticipated replacement of the Washington Avenue Bridge in Wheeling. The $5.3 million project could start as early as the end of this month, and the span over Wheeling Creek in a busy area of the city is expected to be closed to all traffic for nearly a year.

The City of Wheeling announced Friday that the Washington Avenue Bridge is planned to close to all traffic beginning Tuesday, Dec. 2. Traffic will be barred from the bridge, a major connection between National Road and the neighborhood around WVU Medicine Wheeling Hospital, as crews fully replace it.

It is anticipated the closure will last until early October 2026. Work will begin on Nov. 17 near the bridge, but traffic will be maintained via traffic control measures such as flaggers until Dec. 2.

The bridge, which has served the community for decades, has experienced significant structural deterioration over time and underwent repairs in 2021. In recent years, the posted weight limit was reduced while long-term plans for replacement were developed.

With those plans now finalized, construction will move forward to ensure a safe, modern structure for the traveling public. The bridge’s replacement is through a partnership between the West Virginia Department of Highways and the City of Wheeling.

“This project has been years in the making and we realize that its closure will be difficult on the businesses and residents nearby and will inconvenience the motoring public,” City Manager Robert Herron said, “but its replacement will ensure that this main traffic artery within the city will be safe and accessible for many, many years to come.

“The city truly appreciates the WVDOH’s efforts on this project and we look forward to working with them and the contractor for a safe, smooth and successful project,” said City Manager Robert Herron.

During the closure, drivers are encouraged to allow extra travel time and plan alternate routes. Detour signage will be in place. Additional updates will be provided as work progresses.