Hood River Bridge Closures Announced for Sept. 5-6, and Nov. 3-6
by Cole Goodwin
Hood River, OR, September 5th, 2023– The Hood River-White Salmon Interstate bridge, has scheduled several closures over the coming months due to essential maintenance activities. Single lane clousures are scheduled to take place Sept. 5-6, and all lane closures are scheduled for Nov. 3-6.
Single lane closures began the morning of Saturday, September 2, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Single lane closures will also occur o Tuesday and Wednesday, September 5 and 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This closure is to facilitate maintenance work on the NW Pipeline gas pipeline. Travelers should be prepared for flaggers on the bridge during these times, directing vehicles around the work zone. Consequently, some delays are anticipated, and commuters are advised to plan their trips accordingly.
The bridge will also undergo $1,119,250 in repairs in November during a 4 day closure of the bridge from Friday November 3 to Monday November 6. This closure is necessary in order for crews to remove, replace, and adjust the tension in the wire ropes which support the bridge lift counterweights. The project is getting a late start as it had originally slated for May, however unforeseen fabrication issues and the fruit harvest season led to the postponement. However the Port has assured the public that the procedure will proceed irrespective of weather conditions, ensuring the continuity of work.
Paul Bandlow, principal and unit manager for bridge engineering firm Wiss, Janey, Elstner Associates, Inc., shared insights into the upcoming maintenance.
“Our recent inspection revealed a significant wear in the ropes, prompting their replacement. The current ropes’ condition, while worn, doesn’t compromise the bridge's safety. This maintenance is akin to preemptively changing vehicle tires to avoid potential hazards. Our foremost priority is ensuring the bridge's safety for its users,” said Bandlow
The process for rope replacement encompasses several steps, including the unloading and reloading of ropes to the counterweights.
Given the expansive scope of work – spanning the bridge's surface and additional areas – vehicular access will be restricted. Marine traffic will also be halted during the rope replacement period. On a brighter note, the newly installed ropes are engineered to last at least 30 years.
Residents and regular bridge are encouraged to stay informed to intermittent single-lane closures, leading up to the main November closure. This is part of Hamilton Construction's preparatory process.
For detailed information and regular updates, the Port directs users to their official website: www.portofhoodriver.com.
