Date:  Monday, June 01, 2009

Contact: Contact: Becky Hixson, WSDOT Communications, 360-870-8130

SHINE – The drawspan check list is 93 pages long with over 1,400 electrical, mechanical and hydraulic line items that must pass inspection. One by one, WSDOT and Kiewit-General crews are checking these items off in sequence, in preparation to begin SR 104 Hood Canal Bridge draw span testing necessary to re-open the bridge.

Before the SR 104 Hood Canal Bridge can reopen to traffic, WSDOT and Kiewit-General must complete 20 consecutive error free openings to meet operational standards that demonstrate a safe and reliable draw span. Those tests are scheduled to start tomorrow, Tuesday. Accomplishing this will provide a clear view on when the bridge will be ready for 16,000 vehicles that cross it daily.

“Completing these checklist and all 20 draw span test openings,” said Dave Ziegler, principal engineer, “means we will deliver what we promised - a new bridge that is wider, safer and more reliable.”

The exact opening time is still unknown because the testing work is unpredictable. Even if the crews have 19 successful tests and then the draw span doesn’t work on the 20th test, they must begin the testing sequence with a count of zero once again. An update on draw span work and testing progress will be provided after the testing has begun.

After the bridge is open, WSDOT will continue to provide transportation services for the day the bridge opens and one day after to help travelers return to their normal commute. The Port Townsend to Edmonds car ferry will end as soon as the bridge is open. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead by visiting www.HoodCanalBridge.com or by calling 1-877-595-4222.

The Hood Canal Bridge opening will be celebrated June 6, 2009 at two venues: 11 a.m., ribbon-cutting, Salsbury Park, Kitsap County; noon-8 p.m. Bridge Opening Bash, Port Townsend.

See the latest project photos at Flickr or read about construction updates on the Hood Canal Bridge blog. The Hood Canal Bridge retrofit and replacement improves the existing east half, making it wider, safer and more reliable

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