MOUNT VERNON, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A major construction project in Mount Vernon could be finished nearly four months earlier than expected.

WSDOT says both directions of the Division Street Bridge will be closed for two weeks starting on the first week of November.

It’s part of a new plan that will allow the bridge – also referred to as the SR 536 Bridge and the West Mount Vernon Bridge – to fully reopen by Thanksgiving.

The bridge has already been closed to eastbound traffic over the Skagit River since June 11 for the painting project. Crews are removing old paint, debris and rust for the bridge, which hasn’t been re-painted since 1990, as well as inspecting it and replacing or repairing parts that have heavy corrosion.

It was previously expected to reopen in early 2027, but city leaders hope the accelerated timeline will minimize the impact on local businesses.

“This is a solution that prioritizes the small business community in Mount Vernon,” Mount Vernon Mayor Peter Donovan said in a news release. “We are so grateful for WSDOT’s openness to pursuing this expedited path forward. Wrapping up the project before the holiday business season could be the difference in those businesses’ survival.”

Pedestrians, bicyclists and people using mobility devices will still be able to cross using the bridge sidewalk during the closure. There will be some work that closes the sidewalk, but an ADA-accessible shuttle will be available during those times.

Emergency responders will also be able to use the bridge during the closure.

WSDOT says the plan is weather dependent, and heavy rain could delay the bridge’s reopening.