Birch Bay-Lynden R over I-5
FairWhatcom County, Washington · 4.3 N JCT SR 548 · Structure no. 0006926C0000000
- Built
- 1961
- 64 years old
- Condition
- Fair
- inspected June 2024
- Type
- Stringer/Multi-beam or Girder
- Prestressed Concrete
- Length
- 272 ft
- 5 main spans
- Daily traffic
- 10,381
- 2012 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
Birch Bay-Lynden R over I-5 is a prestressed concrete stringer/multi-beam or girder carrying Birch Bay-Lynden R over I-5 in Whatcom County, Washington. It was built in 1961, so it is 64 years old, older than the Washington average of 49.8 years.
The most recent inspection reported to the Federal Highway Administration rates it in fair condition with a lowest component rating of 6 out of 9. The lowest-rated primary component is rated 5 or 6. Minor deterioration is present but the structure is sound.
It carries about 10,381 vehicles a day, roughly 5% of them trucks, projected to reach 16,111 by 2036. The structure is 272 ft (82.9 m) long and 33 ft wide. If it were closed, the detour would be 3.7 mi (6 km).
Location
Open in Google MapsCondition and inspection
The lowest-rated primary component is rated 5 or 6. Minor deterioration is present but the structure is sound.
| Component | Rating | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Deck | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
| Superstructure | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
| Substructure | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was Birch Bay-Lynden R over I-5 built?
It was built in 1961, making it 64 years old in 2025.
What condition is Birch Bay-Lynden R over I-5 in?
The National Bridge Inventory rates it in fair condition. The lowest-rated primary component is rated 5 or 6. Minor deterioration is present but the structure is sound. The last reported inspection was in June 2024.
How much traffic does Birch Bay-Lynden R over I-5 carry?
About 10,381 vehicles per day (2012 count), of which roughly 5% are trucks.
How long is Birch Bay-Lynden R over I-5?
The structure is 272 ft (82.9 m) long with a longest span of 61 ft (18.6 m) and a deck 33 ft wide.
Who owns Birch Bay-Lynden R over I-5?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.