Spokane Street Bridge reopens following damaging DUI crash

SEATTLE - The Spokane Street Swing Bridge is back open after a DUI crash caused some serious damage on Saturday.

According to Seattle Police, on September 14, an impaired driver was speeding westbound when they crossed into the opposite lanes and crashed through the bridge's warning gates.

The driver and passenger both had to be extricated by cutting the roof off. Both were in stable condition.

The driver was later arrested for DUI and unlawful carry of a pistol.

The crash caused an extended closure of the Spokane Street bridge, as it severely damaged the gate's metal "backbone," which includes its lock mechanism, gate control panel, motor and sensors. Without the gate, the Seattle Department of Transportation says it's unsafe for drivers to use the bridge.

The Spokane Street Swing Bridge full reopened on Friday after crews completed gate repairs, however there will be lane closures in both directions of the South Spokane Street Viaduct this weekend.