Date:  Tuesday, September 02, 2008

Contact: Chris Tams, Columbia Gorge Area Engineer, (866) 279-0730 (Vancouver)
Abbi Russell, WSDOT Communications, (360) 905-2057 (Vancouver)

GOLDENDALE – Starting Monday, September 8, 2008, the Biggs Rapids – Sam Hill Bridge will be closed to all traffic until construction is completed in early 2009. During the full closure, crews will demolish and reconstruct the deck on the southern half of the bridge as well as install improved, pedestrian-friendly bridge rail.

A full closure of the bridge is necessary to perform the work as quickly as possible under the safest working conditions. It also ensures the best quality construction is achieved; a full closure eliminates vibration due to traffic traveling on the bridge and allows the concrete to cure with minimal disturbance.

During construction, detour routes will be available. Detour routes include US 197 Dalles Bridge via I-84 or State Route 14. Another option for eastbound traffic is to cross at the I-82 Columbia River Bridge. In addition, carpool match information is available at www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/US97/BiggsBridge/travelerinfo.

Advance warning signs will be placed ahead of the construction area, and motorists are asked to observe and adhere to the posted speed limits when driving through the work zone. Motorists are also reminded that all traffic fines are doubled within a construction work zone when workers are present (RCW 46.61.527).

For weekly updates on this and all other state traffic impacts in the region, please visit the WSDOT Southwest Region Weekly Travel Advisory Web page: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Regions/SouthWest/Construction/default.htm.

For more information about the Biggs Rapids – Sam Hill Memorial Bridge Deck Replacement project, please contact WSDOT’s Columbia Gorge Area Engineering Office by phone (866-279-0730), by e-mail (swgorge@wsdot.wa.gov) or visit the project page at: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/US97/BiggsBridge.

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Drivers can now get real time traffic and weather information by dialing 5-1-1 from most phones. This new traveler information system builds upon the highly successful Washington State Highway hotline that managed 4.6 million calls each year. Callers can also use 5-1-1 to get statewide construction, mountain pass condition, and state ferry system information, as well as toll free numbers for passenger rail and airlines. TTY users can call 1-800-833-6388.

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