Complete
WSDOT reopens Simpson Avenue Bridge Jan. 10
Check out photos from the inspection.
The US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge carries eastbound traffic across the Hoquiam River, and WSDOT has installed temporary traffic cameras on US 101 to help travelers plan ahead.
Marine vessel openings are no longer restricted to high slack tide and can be accomodated 24 hours per day.
WSDOT completed temporary repairs to the bridge in September. Those repairs relieved the load on the pier, but do not provide enough support to allow vehicles back on the structure.
Quigg Bros. Inc., of Aberdeen was awarded the contract to repair the foundation that supports the bridge Oct. 21, 2010.
The bridge was built in 1927 and in 2008 received a $9.2 million mechanical and electrical retrofit.
Why is WSDOT
closing the US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge
WSDOT closed the US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge to motor-vehicle traffic Thursday, Aug. 5, because of concerns about its structural integrity.
WSDOT determined the closure was necessary after commercial divers and bridge engineers discovered degradation of piles in the easterly pier.
Underwater inspections were conducted Tuesday, Aug. 3, and Wednesday, Aug. 4, after WSDOT crews noticed unusual movement of the bridge.
The End Result
WSDOT and its contractor is diligently working to reopen the bridge to traffic. Crews are currently working 12-hour shifts, twice a day, seven days a week and are on track to open the structure in January 2011.
Project Benefits
When the pier repair is done, the Hoquiam community will be able to use the Simpson Avenue Bridge again.
What is the project timeline?
- Aug 3 and 4, 2010 - Divers inspect the most easterly pier of the US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge.
- Aug. 5, 2010 - WSDOT closes the US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge after inspections reveal severe degradation to the pilings of the most easterly pier.
- September 10, 2010 - WSDOT completes temporary repairs to the structure.
- Early January 2011 - Target date for reopening the bridge to traffic.
Financial Information
Pre-existing funds: $11.9 million
State: $7.3 million
Federal: $4.6 million
Total Available funding from all sources: $11.9 million
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Lisa Copeland
Olympic Region Communications Manager
(360) 357-2789
copelal@wsdot.wa.gov
For comments or concerns, please e-mail orfeedback@wsdot.wa.gov
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