Item B: I-5 Willamette River Bridge - ODOT Update

Home Browse Search

Project Information Paper I-5 Willamette River Bridge – Eugene and Springfield Updated September 1, 2009 Project location ? On Interstate 5 at milepost 192.7 where it crosses the Willamette River between the cities of Eugene and Springfield. Project purpose and need ? The purpose of the project is to improve safety and maintain connectivity and mobility for all users of I-5 over the Willamette River and the Eugene/Springfield metropolitan area. ? Bridge inspection reports in 2002 showed shear cracks growing quicker than expected throughout the reinforced concrete beams supporting the bridge deck. Traffic has been diverted to a temporary detour structure until a new bridge can be constructed. Construction overview ? Construction will have minor impacts on vehicle traffic. Bicycle and pedestrian path users may be affected, and signed detours will be provided. ? ODOT is designing the new bridges wide enough to eventually carry up to six lanes of traffic (three lanes in each direction) to meet the projected long-term traffic needs. The new bridges will be striped to carry two lanes in each direction, matching the existing alignment of I-5. Any future widening of I-5 would require a full environmental review. ? The new bridge design will accommodate potential future configurations of Franklin Boulevard, to the extent feasible. ? Lane County and the cities of Eugene and Springfield are active participants in the process through participation on the Project Development Team. ? The bridge design phase of the project will continue through the end of 2009. For updated information on highway work and current travel information throughout Oregon, visit www.tripcheck.com or call the toll-free Oregon road report at 511 or (800) 977-6368. Visit the ODOT News Media Center at www.oregon.gov/ODOT/COMM/.