Project news

• Construction is scheduled to begin in summer 2018
• Sign up to receive project and construction updates
• This project was awarded to Liberty Maintenance Inc., on March 26, 2018

Needs & benefits

Why is WSDOT painting the eastbound bridge span of the SR 432- Cowlitz River Bridge?

Originally built in 1961, the eastbound span of the SR 432 Cowlitz River Bridge (officially named the Harry E. Morgan Bridge) crosses over the Cowlitz River, east of Longview, in Cowlitz County.

Last painted in 1990, the paint on the narrow steel truss bridge is flaking and peeling, exposing the steel to the elements, which results in rust and corrosion. Painting the bridge will preserve the existing infrastructure and extend the life of the bridge, which sees approximately 16,400 vehicles a day. 

In summer 2018, crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation will begin work to remove the existing paint and rust. Once the old paint is stripped off, crews will apply a specialty bridge paint that protects the structure for approximately 20 years.

Project benefits

• Improves safety
  The steel framework of the bridge will be cleaned and repainted with a protective coating to prolong the life of this vital transportation connection.
• Economic
  The protective coating helps prevent future corrosion and preserves the bridge's structural integrity.

Timeline

Spring 2018
Project goes to competitive bid

Summer 2018
Construction begins

Fall 2018
Project is scheduled to be complete

What can travelers expect?
During construction, traffic will be reduced to a single-lane overnight, Monday through Friday nights, from 7 p.m. to 9 a.m.