The answer to the most frequently asked question is:
Yes, the work on the bridge is on schedule and is expected to re-open in the fall 2012.
February 2012 Update
Click here for a nighttime photo of the bridge construction by Mark Toal.
Before the bridge can be restored to its original grandeur, more demolition has to occur. Here is what the contractor plans to work on over the coming weeks.
The contractor for the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is removing sidewalks and railings from the bridge. This demolition work generates some noise during February on both sides of the bridge.
Oregon City Side of the Bridge—Nighttime work
Starting about February 1, night work begins on the bridge where it crosses over McLoughlin Blvd. (OR99E). The old sidewalks and railings will be demolished and new sidewalks and railings installed. This demolition work involves intermittent jack hammering for approximately the first two weeks of February between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
During the last 2 weeks of February, the new sidewalks will be formed and noise level will be reduced.
West Linn Side of the Bridge—Daytime work
Starting February 13, crews will remove the sidewalks and railings on the West Linn end of the bridge. This involves jack hammering and noisy saw cutting and during the day from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for about 3 to 7 days.
Intermittent jack hammering continues throughout February and March. ODOT will shield the equipment to reduce the noise.
Traffic Impacts
To keep motorists safe and minimize traffic disruption, nighttime closures are required on McLoughlin Blvd. (OR99E) of one lane in each direction near the bridge between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. Please be aware of the flaggers directing traffic.
If you have questions or would like to be added to the mailing list, please contact Susan Hanson.
Click here to see the Weekly Construction Report for any traffic impacts.
Bridge Shuttle hours extended on Saturday and Sunday evenings and retained on weekday evenings
Starting, Monday, February 13, ODOT will permanently extend shuttle service until 11 p.m. on weekdays. This service was added in the fall on an experimental basis and it has been a success.
Weekend Evening Shuttle Service: In addition, based on many requests, ODOT will add service until 11 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays on a trial basis for the next 3 months. The added hours will begin on Feb. 18 and 19. Ridership will be evaluated in May and a decision will be about its future if ridership warrants.
For a new shuttle schedule, click here
If you have any questions about the project, please contact me. Encourage others who would like project information to send me their email address to receive project update news.
Susan Hanson
Community Affairs Coordinator
Oregon Department of Transportation - Region 1
123 NW Flanders | Portland, OR | 97209
503-731-3490 (desk) | 503-706-9814 (cell) | 503-731-3266 (fax)
Susan.C.Hanson@odot.state.or.us
Visit the ODOT Region 1 Web site: http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/HWY/REGION1/