The city of Bothell will host an open house Feb. 2 to outline plans to replace the currently closed bridge on 240th Street Southeast. The open house is planned for 5-7:30 p.m. in the A.J. Blethen Room at the Seattle Times North Creek Facility, 19200 120th Ave. NE.

According to the city, when the bridge was inspected last fall, the timber piles were found to be deteriorated to the point where the bridge was deemed no longer safe. The span has been closed since. The bridge was originally scheduled for replacement in 2012. Since the closure, the city has been working to accelerate the replacement schedule. The cost of construction will be covered by city funds and a federal grant. During the upcoming open house, officials plan to offer details on the project schedule, as well as potential construction and traffic impacts.

Currently, drivers are advised to avoid 240th between Fitzgerald Road and 35th Avenue Southeast and to use alternate routes. Note that the North Creek Trail remains open for both pedestrians and bicyclists.

According to the city, Bothell conducts bridge inspections on a regular basis to ensure safety.