Project overview
Crews will upgrade and replace key elements of the SR 104 Hood Canal Bridge. The construction bolsters systems that guide the bridge together and keep both halves of the bridge connected.
What to expect
Work on the shock absorbers is complete. There are no more scheduled overnight closures for the bridge associated with this project.
Crews will continue to work during the day on the bridge's locking mechanism. The bridge will remain open to traffic during this work. It does require short 30 to 40-minute test openings during weekday daytime hours. This is about as long as a typical inspection opening.
Map of SR 104 Hood Canal Bridge repair project.
The SR 104 Hood Canal Bridge is truly unique. Massive hydraulic systems lift, retract and extend the driving surface of the bridge. The movement creates an opening large enough for marine traffic.
A key element of this bridge helps keep both halves of the bridge together. The area, called a center lock, is similar to a door’s deadbolt. During this project, crews will bolster the center lock to better withstand tremendous forces, especially during powerful winter storms and fast-moving tides.
Crews have also made permanent repairs to another system. Twin metallic objects shaped like pyramids on one half of the bridge help guide the bridge into dual receivers located on the second half of the bridge. Workers will temporarily remove both systems - called pyramids - and a large metal plate that secures the pyramids in place. Crews will then reinstall the metal plate and the pyramids using industrial-sized bolts.
Repairs will extend the ability for the bridge to open for marine traffic and close the draw span for all travelers crossing the SR 104 Hood Canal Bridge. With no convenient alternate routes between Kitsap and Jefferson, repairing the bridge preserves an important lifeline for residents and businesses.