New SR 520 floating bridge to open in April -- but you can walk, run or bike it first!



SEATTLE -- The new Highway 520 floating bridge will open in April, with cyclists and pedestrians allowed to try it out first.

State officials announced that westbound lanes are tentatively scheduled to open April 11 and eastbound lanes are scheduled for April 25. Before traffic begins, a fun run and walk is planned for April 2.

The new bridge replaces the old 520 bridge that was built in 1963. The new version will be the longest floating bridge in the world with, with 132 more feet than its predecessor.

Officials say the gap between opening westbound and eastbound lanes is because of weekend work to move barriers and other time-ins.

The old bridge will continue to carry traffic from the Foster Island area to Seattle.