Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Reopens After Repairs
By Joshuah Albert
Hood River, Ore. July 1, 2024– The Hood River-White Salmon Interstate Bridge reopened on Sunday, June 30th, three days after a semi-trick accident that resulted in significant damage to its span lifts.
The incident occurred when a semi-truck, carrying an excavator on a flatbed, struck the span lifts with the excavator's arm, resulting in damage to the movable sections of the bridge.
“The Port Commission approved the reopening of the Hood River-White Salmon Interstate Bridge based on the recommendation from the engineering team at this morning’s special emergency meeting. Justin Doornink, PhD, PE, Associate Vice President and Northwest Region Bridge Leader from HDR Engineering, Inc., advised that the Port limit traffic to passenger vehicles only to prevent another accidental strike to the overhead bracing while the bridge remains in a damaged state.
The bridge is expected to reopen for the use of passenger vehicles only by 2 PM on June 30, 2024. Electronic tolling will be implemented, and traffic control personnel will be stationed at both entrances around the clock to ensure compliance. A schedule for the permanent repairs will be provided later in the week,” read an official release from the Port of Hood River.
Commuters are encouraged to remain vigilant and adhere to all posted signage and regulations when crossing the bridge.
For further updates and information, please visit the Port of Hood River's website at: portofhoodriver.com.
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