Republicans introduce bill to reopen historic Mount Rainier gateway

The Fight to Restore Access to the Fairfax Bridge

Republican lawmakers in Washington State have introduced a proposal aimed at restoring access to the historic Fairfax Bridge, which has been closed since April of last year. The bridge, a 103-year-old structure, serves as a crucial gateway to Mount Rainier National Park and is located near Wilkeson, a small logging town that relies heavily on tourism.

The closure of the bridge has had a significant impact on the local economy, with many businesses struggling due to the lack of visitors. In response, Rep. Andrew Barkis and Rep. Josh Penner proposed House Bill 2149, which would declare an emergency and direct the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to restore access "as soon as possible."

Local Efforts and Concerns

Wilkeson Mayor-elect Jayme Peloli has been actively involved in advocating for the restoration of the bridge. She highlighted the community's efforts to work with local, regional, and state leaders to address the impacts of the closure. Peloli submitted records to the Office of the Washington State Auditor in October, revealing decades of deferred preservation on the bridge.

State Auditor Pat McCarthy responded with a letter to Gov. Bob Ferguson and Peloli, indicating plans for a potential audit in 2026. Peloli's report emphasized that there were two decades of warnings, a documented rehab plan from 2010, and repeated findings of "advanced corrosion." However, instead of taking action, funds were diverted to urban mobility projects, leaving rural residents without access to essential services.

Financial Implications and Challenges

WSDOT estimates that tearing down the Fairfax Bridge and buying out landowners across the Carbon River could cost around $80 million. Rebuilding the bridge could range from $100 million to $785 million, depending on the chosen option, and would take several years to complete.

HB 2149 aims to accelerate this process by granting WSDOT authority to expedite planning and construction. This includes the ability to waive or suspend certain statutory and regulatory requirements, such as liability provisions for interlocal agreements, inspection fees, and taxes.

Funding Source and Political Context

The bill identifies a funding source for the project: revenue from the Climate Commitment Act (CCA). Democrats passed the CCA in 2021 to cap emissions, requiring companies to buy allowances if they exceed their limits. These allowances are typically passed on to consumers through higher gas prices and other costs.

While Republicans have criticized the CCA for its impact on the cost of living, they currently lack the votes to repeal it. As a result, some Republicans are proposing alternatives to CCA revenue. HB 2149 would allow the state to fully fund the replacement using CCA revenue, while attributing the closure to climate change.

Future Plans and Focus

Peloli emphasized that the bill does not lock the state into a single design or timeline. Instead, it focuses on restoring access as quickly and safely as possible while permanent replacement planning continues. The proposal highlights the importance of addressing the immediate needs of the community while considering long-term solutions.

As the debate over the Fairfax Bridge continues, the local community remains hopeful that the proposed legislation will lead to a swift resolution. The outcome of HB 2149 could have significant implications for the future of Wilkeson and the surrounding area, impacting not only the local economy but also the accessibility of one of the region's most iconic landmarks.