Two-way traffic returns to SR 4 in Cowlitz County

STELLA--Both lanes of State Route 4 west of the community of Stella are now open following an extended closure of the eastbound lane for emergency bridge repair.

For the safety of drivers, the Washington Department of Transportation closed a single lane near Bunker Hill Road (milepost 49.8) to replace a decaying 30-foot section of wood bridge deck Friday, Jan. 30.

This two-lane stretch of SR 4 winds along the north bank of the Columbia River, hugging a steep cliff side. The westbound lane is built on rock, while the eastbound lane is supported by a bridge with a wood deck.

The bridge was built in 1930 and carries about 4,200 vehicles a day.