Daytime lane closures are scheduled for the Steel Bridge in Portland during the week of August 18-22 to allow for regular inspections. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) announced that each direction of OR 99W across the bridge will be closed at different times, but not simultaneously.
Travelers using OR 99W and the Steel Bridge are advised to plan for possible detours or consider alternate routes. For up-to-date travel information, ODOT recommends checking TripCheck.com.
During northbound closures on OR 99W, traffic will be rerouted over the Broadway Bridge from Portland’s west side to east side. Southbound closures will send drivers over the Burnside Bridge from east to west.
ODOT is required to inspect bridges every two years, with additional inspections after incidents like crashes or natural events that could cause damage. The Steel Bridge is due for its regular inspection this summer.
Despite a significant funding crisis affecting maintenance and operations at ODOT, most infrastructure projects will proceed as planned. This is because many projects receive funding from state or federal sources earmarked specifically for project development, which cannot be used for routine maintenance or daily operations.
“While ODOT’s funding crisis is having a profound impact on maintenance and operations, most projects will continue. These projects are typically funded through separate programs, often with state or federal funds that are legally restricted to project development, and cannot be used for maintenance or day-to-day operations,” according to ODOT.
