WAPATO, Wash.-Both directions of I-82 near Wapato are now closed due to an embankment failure near the eastbound lanes.
The Washington State Department of Transportation closed both lanes as of 6:30 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 16 to ensure the safety of travelers.
Initially only the eastbound lanes were closed when the failure was found on Monday, Feb. 12, however, WSDOT crews inspected the area and discovered damage to an irrigation culvert running under the road.
According to a WSDOT press release on the situation, the culvert, operated by the Roza Irrigation District, has partially collapsed due to age and corrosion.
The culvert under the eastbound lanes was further damaged during excavation work on Feb. 15, which impacted the shoulder and the left lane of the westbound lanes, according to WSDOT.
Detour routes will be posted for both direction on I-82 throughout the closure.
I-82 Detours:
Eastbound traffic will detour off I-82 at exit 37A onto US 97. Drivers will then use McDonald Rd. to SR 22 before getting back onto I-82.Westbound traffic will detour off I-82 at exit 50 onto Buena Rd. and then detour via Yakima Valley Highway and Donald Wapato Rd. to return to I-82.
There is currently no estimated timetable for when the repairs will be completed and I-82 will be reopened. According to today’s press release, the WSDOT is working with the Roza Irrigation District on a replacement solution to provide irrigation while repairs are made.
