A contractor working for the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) will be replacing the Beaver Creek Bridge, located between Vernonia and Staley Junction (U.S. 26 and OR 47). To accomplish the work, a full 24-7 closure of OR 47 is planned from July 9 to Sept. 6 with local access maintained and a detour using Timber Road.
The Beaver Creek Bridge, at milepost 70, is an old, narrow bridge that is in poor condition and in need of frequent repairs. The plan is to remove the old bridge starting on July 9 and reconstruct a new one it its place. The newly-constructed bridge is expected to be ready for traffic on Sept. 7. The work includes:
- Constructing a work isolation area and removing the existing bridge;
- constructing pile foundations, abutments and bridge super structure;
- installing drainage and storm water facilities, and paving; and
- installing a retaining wall.
Local access will be maintained from McDonald Road south to the bridge site and from Johnson Road north to the site. A detour for thru traffic is Columbia County's Timber Road that connects OR 47 (at milepost 64.5) with U.S. 26 (at milepost 38).
Some work on the project has already been completed including clearing and tree removal from around the bridge and work site. There may be additional work required prior to the full closure which may include lane closures, flagging of traffic and some minor delays. Variable message signs placed along OR 47 and U.S. 26 will be used to warn travelers of any traffic control changes and delays caused by construction.
ODOT will be hosting a public meeting before the start of construction to review the project details, detour and answer questions. The public will be notified when the meeting is scheduled. For more information, visit oregon.gov/odot/projects/pages/project-details.aspx?project=17522.
