Why is WSDOT resurfacing southbound Interstate 5 at the North Fork Lewis River Bridge near Woodland and the southbound I-5 railroad bridge south of Kalama?
The weight of heavy traffic coupled with an unusually cold wet winter caused damage to the pavement on this stretch of southbound I-5. Between summer 2017 and 2018, contractor crews will replace expansion joints on the bridges, install new waterproof membrane, apply new pavement markings and resurface the bridge decks.
What can drivers expect during spring construction?
Summer paving
In addition to the expansion joint replacement, the asphalt on the bridge deck will be removed and replaced. This portion was paved in 2017, but upon inspection, it was determined the new pavement will be prone to potholing and cracking sooner than normal. The contractor will complete this work at their expense during the dry summer months.
The End Result
This project will help preserve this section of the interstate and provide a smoother surface for the 74,000 drivers who use this stretch of highway daily. I-5 is the most significant freight freeway on the West Coast, linking markets in Canada, the United States and Mexico and is critical to the regional, state and national economy. Rehabilitating this stretch of I-5 extends the life of the interstate and preserves an important freight corridor for many years to come.
Project Benefits
What is the project timeline?
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Lori Figone
WSDOT Vancouver Area Office
360-905-1500
Tamara Greenwell
WSDOT Communications
360-905-2056