The repair or replacement of a state bridge deemed structurally deficient, as defined in RCW 47.04.010, is exempt from compliance with this chapter as long as the action occurs within the existing right-of-way, except that the repair or replacement may occur outside the existing right-of-way as needed to meet current engineering standards or state or local environmental permit requirements for highway construction as long as the repair or replacement does not result in additional lanes for automobiles. The issuance of applicable state and local agency permits or approvals associated with the repair or replacement of such bridges is also included in this exemption from compliance with this chapter.

Effective date—2015 3rd sp.s. c 10: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [July 6, 2015]." [ 2015 3rd sp.s. c 10 § 5.]

Findings—Intent—2015 3rd sp.s. c 10: "The legislature finds that, as of November 2014, there were one hundred thirty state-owned bridges classified as structurally deficient. The legislature further finds that a span of the Skagit river bridge on Interstate 5, the Trooper Sean M. O'Connell Jr. Memorial bridge, recently collapsed when an oversized load struck the trusses that supported the bridge. Although the Skagit river bridge was not considered structurally deficient, this event underscores the importance of remedying bridge structural deficiencies as efficiently and expeditiously as possible. Thus, it is the intent of the legislature to provide for expedited permitting and contracting for state bridges identified as structurally deficient by the Washington state department of transportation." [ 2015 3rd sp.s. c 10 § 1.]