Date:
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Contact:
Eric Soderquist, Project Director, (360) 704-6310
Lloyd Brown, Communication Manager, (360) 357-2789
SHINE - The Washington State Department of Transportation and its contractor, Kiewit-General of Poulsbo, confirmed today the dates for the first of two complete SR 104 Hood Canal Bridge closures in August.
The current schedule would close the bridge twice in August - one weekday closure and one weekend closure. According to Kiewit-General officials, the first closure will begin at 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11 and end by 4 a.m. Monday, Aug. 15. The second closure remains tentatively scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 21 and end by 4 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 25.
During the three-day closures, Kiewit-General will replace the bridge approach spans - the bridge segments that connect the floating structures to the land. The approach spans are fixed structures (they don't float) built on concrete piers. The west approach span is 190 feet long and the east-half approach span is 640 feet long. A full explanation of the roll-over process is available at www.hoodcanalbridge.com.
Closing the bridge, which carries an average of 20,000 trips on weekends, will significantly affect motorists and surrounding communities. WSDOT is making extra effort to keep traffic moving during these three-day closures. WSDOT is:
* Increasing roving tow service and WSDOT incident response along US 101 to help drivers.
* Using highway advisory radio, variable message signs and electronic media to share information with drivers.
* Expanding signage at key decision points.
* Coordinating with Washington State Ferries to help drivers find alternate routes.
* Working with tourism and business interests, local community groups and the Peninsula Regional Transportation Planning Organization to distribute information.
WSDOT has made alternate route information and a list of bridge closure survival tips available online at www.hoodcanalbridge.com or by calling 877-595-HCB2 (4222). Travelers to and from the Olympic Peninsula who opt to use one of the alternate routes can help keep traffic moving by:
* Allowing extra time for your trip.
* Calling ahead to those who are awaiting your arrival so they won't worry, and you won't feel rushed.
* Paying attention to what's happening in front of you.
* Keeping some distance between you and the vehicle in front of you in case of sudden stops and to allow safe haven for vehicles that may need to pass you.
* Using the slow-vehicle turnouts if you're holding up traffic (and tipping your hat to others for doing the same!).
* Not blocking driveways and side streets if traffic does get congested.
* Using care in construction zones. Slow down and "Give 'em a Brake."
* Being patient - we're all in this together!
For more information on the Hood Canal Bridge project, visit www.hoodcanalbridge.com or call 877-595-HCB2 (4222).
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