Date:  Friday, August 29, 2008

Contact: Chad Hancock, Traffic Engineer, (360) 905-2240 (Vancouver)
Abbi Russell, WSDOT Communications, (360) 905-2057 (Vancouver)

WOODLAND – Beginning Tuesday, September 2, all vehicles with trailers over 10,000 pounds traveling southbound on I-5 at the North Fork Lewis River Bridge (milepost 19.83) will be temporarily limited to the center lane, announces the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT).

In an effort to preserve an aged and deteriorating expansion joint on the bridge, WSDOT is requesting that all truck traffic use the center lane when crossing the bridge. Encouraging trucks to use the center lane will help alleviate stress on the joint until a contract can be administered to replace it. WSDOT plans to advertise and award a contract as quickly as possible to minimize impact to traffic on this section of I-5.

The North Fork Lewis River Bridge was built in 1940 and carries an average of 34,000 vehicles over the Lewis River per day. “It’s a well-traveled bridge,” said Region Bridge Superintendent Jerry Barsness. “Replacing the expansion joint is a routine part of its maintenance that will help us maintain the serviceability of the bridge for many years to come.”

Advanced warning signs will be posted to direct trucks into the center lane of the highway. Truck traffic is asked to please pay attention to these signs and move into the center lane if it is safe to do so.

For weekly updates on this project and all other traffic impacts in the region, please visit the WSDOT Southwest Region Weekly Travel Advisory Web page at: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Regions/SouthWest/Construction. 

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Drivers can now get real time traffic and weather information by dialing 5-1-1 from most phones. This new traveler information system builds upon the highly successful Washington State Highway hotline that managed 4.6 million calls each year. Callers can also use 5-1-1 to get statewide construction, mountain pass condition, and state ferry system information, as well as toll free numbers for passenger rail and airlines. TTY users can call 1-800-833-6388.

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