Construction on the Chandler Bridge, situated on Oregon 241 about three miles east of downtown Coos Bay, is set to begin next week. The project, overseen by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), will focus on painting and repairing the bridge. Built in 1952, the Chandler Bridge features a lift span that allows maritime traffic to pass along the Coos River. Over time, its paint has deteriorated and rust has developed on much of its surface.
The upcoming work includes painting the steel truss section, replacing ladders and access platforms on the lift-span tower, and upgrading the steel guardrail at both ends of the bridge. Contractors are scheduled to establish a work zone, mobilize equipment, and install construction signs starting Monday, February 9. For several weeks following this setup, drivers should expect intermittent daytime lane closures with flaggers managing brief delays.
For most of spring and summer, traffic across Chandler Bridge will be reduced to a single lane around the clock. A temporary signal system will be used for traffic control during this period.
The construction plan also calls for two weekend closures of the bridge in early summer. During these times, vehicles from Allegany will need to detour via East Bay Road to U.S. 101 north of McCullough Bridge. ODOT will notify the public ahead of any full closures.
All construction activities are expected to finish by September 18. Abhe & Svoboda, Inc., based in Jordan, Minnesota, was awarded the contract with a bid totaling $7,288,400.
For additional details about the project or road conditions in Oregon during construction periods such as this one managed by ODOT each year, visit their official website or contact Public Information Officer Dan Latham at 541-817-5200 or Dan.Latham@odot.oregon.gov.
