Closed due to falling ice, Tacoma Narrows reopens

The center lanes of the Tacoma Narrows Bridges reopened after 6:30 p.m. Friday after closing down because large chunks of ice fell from the bridge in the morning, posing a danger to motorists below.

The bridges shut down shortly before noon. KIRO 7's Kevin McCarty said officials estimated the bridges would not reopen until at least about 6:30 p.m.

"This is highly unusual," said Troy Cowan, regional maintenance manager for WSDOT.  "But nothing about this storm has been typical." 

The last time the bridge was closed for ice was Dec. 27, 1996, WSDOT said. It was closed for wind in November 2008. 

Troopers are turning drivers around and directing them off the freeway at a roadblock on Jackson.  Those who have to cross the bridge are being lined up on North Tenth Street until it opens.

KIRO 7's Kevin McCarty and photographer Terry Griffin are nearby and said they could hear chunks of ice falling and hitting the bridge earlier Friday.

WSDOT crews inspected the bridge Friday afternoon to ensure it’s safe for drivers.  Though no cars were hit by the falling ice, some drivers reported close calls.