Work to replace the driving surface and joints on four bridges along Interstate 84 in the Columbia Gorge has begun with estimated completion in mid-August, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation.
The overlay of new pavement on bridge decks will eliminate ruts and potholes, provide a smoother ride and help preserve the bridges structural integrity, reducing the need for future, more costly repairs, according to ODOT, which has hired a contractor to complete the $1.7 million job funded by state and federal dollars.
For a total of six weeks, travelers can expect periodic, single-lane closures at the bridges, located along a 7-mile stretch of I-84 beginning in the Bonneville Dam area.
Bridges receiving the first round of work are the westbound bridge at Ruckel Creek (milepost 42) and the eastbound bridge at Eagle Creek, (milepost 41.5), both scheduled for completion by May 24.
Lane closures for these bridges may cause traffic to backup westbound on the weekends and affect bicyclists, according to ODOT.
Bicyclists are encouraged to use the Historic Columbia River Highway multi-use path since there will be no shoulder on I-84 due to the lane closures.
The remaining bridges to receive work are the eastbound and westbound bridges at Dodson (milepost 35), scheduled to begin after July 4 and completed around Aug. 15.
Most of this project will occur at night, and there will be no daytime lane closures.
For more information, contact Community Affairs Coordinator Susan Hanson at susan.c.hanson@odot.state.or.us or call 503-731-3490.