Project overview
The US 395 Pioneer Memorial Bridge, also known as the Blue Bridge, needed a new coat of paint to preserve and maintain structural integrity. The paint on the Blue Bridge was faded, weathered, and damaged and this allows corrosion to occur. Crews removed the old peeling paint, cleaned and painted all exposed metal and applied new paint to the entire bridge structure. Crews also worked to complete minor maintenance and repairs such as replacing rivets and signage.
What to expect
PASCO – The major painting project on the US 395 Pioneer Memorial Bridge, known locally as the Blue Bridge, is complete. This work will preserve and extend the bridge’s useful lifespan.
Washington State Department of Transportation and contractor crews completed painting and removing the containment structure on Dec. 15. Daily lane closures are no longer needed. There will be intermittent closures as contractor crews finish final work on the bridge, which includes clean-up and removal of equipment.
Work to set up the containment structure began in fall 2023, with painting commencing in January 2024. During the project the contractor removed existing paint on the bridge, cleaned and painted all exposed metal, and repainted the bottom and top portion of the bridge. The work also included completing minor maintenance and repairs to preserve and maintain the bridge’s structural integrity.
Map showing the project area for the painting of the US 395 Pioneer Memorial Bridge. The map shows the project area and alternate bridges travelers can take around the work.