Date:  Saturday, May 30, 2009

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

SHINE – SR 104 Hood Canal Bridge crews are working hard day and night to get the draw span ready for its required testing - completing 20 perfect draw span openings.

Getting the draw span ready is a big task. Before beginning this operation crews must:
• Align the pontoons in the water through ballasting - changing the weight inside the pontoon cells
• Adjust the rollers that guide the retractable draw span in and out
• Install thick rubber bumpers on the draw span pontoon end

“Work on the draw span requires great precision and would typically only occur during the day,” said Paula Hammond, Washington Transportation Secretary. “Getting this bridge open to traffic is so important to the crews that they are adding extra crews and lighting in order to do this work clear through the night.”

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 try, they must begin the testing sequence with a count of zero once again. Once the draw span passes the operational test with flying colors, it is most likely the bridge will be close to opening. An update when draw span testing can begin will be provided on Sunday.

WSDOT will provide transportation services for two days after the bridge is open to help travelers return to their normal commute, with the exception of the Port Townsend to Edmonds ferry service. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead by visiting http://www.hoodcanalbridge.com/ or by calling 1-877-595-4222.

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 will improve the existing east half, making it wider, safer and more reliable.

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