WHEELING — Motorists in Wheeling soon won’t have a popular roadway to use for about a year, as the Washington Avenue Bridge will close Tuesday.

Previous estimates had the bridge closed through October 2026 as it is being totally replaced, but an announcement from the West Virginia Division of Highways said it was estimated to remain closed until December 2026.

The bridge is a significant link between National Road and the Clator neighborhood that houses WVU Medicine Wheeling Hospital. There are also several businesses on Washington Ave. that sit just on the other side of the bridge from National Road, as well as Wheeling University.

The Division of Highways is suggesting detours during the closure — to use US 40, westbound traffic should use Mount de Chantal Road (Exit 2A) and eastbound traffic should use Exit 5.

The bridge, which has served the community for decades, has experienced significant structural deterioration over time and underwent repairs in 2021. In recent years, the posted weight limit was reduced while long-term plans for replacement were developed.

With those plans now finalized, construction will move forward to ensure a safe, modern structure for the traveling public. The bridge’s replacement is through a partnership between the West Virginia Department of Highways and the City of Wheeling. The total cost of the project is about $5.3 million.