August 2009
- Construction was completed on July 19, more than a week ahead of schedule.
- WSDOT thanks drivers who adjusted their commuting habits. As a result, congestion was less than expected.
The I-90 Homer Hadley Floating Bridge opened to traffic in 1989, carrying the westbound lanes and center roadway. Since that time the expansion joints have continued to crack and deteriorate, requiring constant maintenance. Failing expansion joints can pose a safety risk.
To help protect drivers, WSDOT and General Construction Co. replaced the aged and worn expansion joints on the westbound bridge and center roadway. This project supports an estimated 80 jobs.
Construction began on westbound mainline I-90 on July 5 and was completed July 19. All westbound I-90 traffic was funneled into the express lanes during construction.
Why is WSDOT
replacing the expansion joints on the Homer Hadley Bridge?
The original expansion joints were installed before fatigue testing was a standard requirement. Since that time, the expansion joints cracked and deteriorated. Cracked expansion joints required constant maintenance and welding, which causes the metal in the joints to weaken and potentially fail. Replacing the joints protects drivers.
The End Result
The new expansion joints support the heavy loads that regularly cross I-90, including freight and transit vehicles. The new joints will reduce the likelihood of failure.
Project Benefits
- Safety: Replacing the cracked, deteriorating joints with an updated, stronger model improves bridge reliability and increases driver safety.
What is the project timeline?
- June 2008: Project advertised to contractors
- July 2008: Project awarded to General Construction Co.
- May 4 - 16, 2009: Replace expansion joints on center roadway (reversible lanes)
- July 6 - 19, 2009: Crews removed and replaced expansion joints on westbound I-90. The mainline lanes reopened Saturday, July 18, more than a week ahead of schedule. The I-90 express lanes reopened Sunday, July 19.
Financial Information
Existing Funds - $8.5 million
Total Funding from All Sources - $8.5 million
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Hien Trinh
WSDOT Construction Engineer
14711 NE 29th Pl. #224
Bellevue, WA 98007
Phone: (425) 956-2100
E-mail: TrinhH@wsdot.wa.gov
Mike Murphy
WSDOT Communications
15700 Dayton Avenue N.
PO Box 330310
Seattle, WA 98133
Phone: 206-440-4699
Email: MurphyM@wsdot.wa.gov
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