ODOT to work on Old Youngs Bay Bridge

Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) bridge crews will begin repairing the wood timber structure of the Old Youngs Bay Bridge on U.S. 101 (Business) on Monday, April 18 and continuing until May 6. Motorists can expect delays as only one lane of traffic will be open with flaggers.

Several of ODOT’s bridge crews from Astoria, Ona Beach, Salem and Albany will be involved in the repairs. The work consists of installing temporary scaffolding under the bridge, and the removal and replacement of the timber caps, which are part of the wood timber structure and sit on the timber pilings. Also, many braces will also be replaced as part of the project.

During the project, the northbound lane will be closed as flaggers divert traffic using the southbound lane. Crews will be working from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily for the three weeks, including weekends. Motorists can expect up to 20 minute delays.

Portable variable message signs (VMS) will be installed at both ends of the bridge warning motorists of the planned work and delays.

The Old Young’s Bay Bridge was designed and built in 1921 by Conde McCullough. It was the first bridge by McCullough, who is famous for many of the coastal bridges built on U.S. 101 in Oregon. The bridge spans Youngs Bay and connects Astoria with communities to the south and east of Warrenton.