Travelers who use southbound Interstate 5 near Castle Rock, Washington should plan to add extra time to their travel plans this week as work begins to resurface the deck of the I-5 Toutle River Bridge in Cowlitz County.
On Monday, Washington State Department of Transportation began working to resurface the Toutle River Bridge deck, and replace bridge joints. Originally built in 1969, the bridge deck surface is showing its age and is in need of repair.
“Over time, a combination of heavy traffic and weather conditions have caused the bridge deck surface to deteriorate, causing cracks and rutting in the pavement,” said WSDOT Project Engineer Colin Newell. “Resurfacing work will preserve the integrity of the bridge deck, extend the life of the bridge, and provide a smooth and safe connection for all travelers along I-5.”
To resurface the bridge and replace the expansion joints, contractor crews need to close a single lane of traffic around-the-clock, and temporarily reduce the speed limit to 55 mph for the duration of the project. Travelers should also expect intermittent, nighttime, double-lane and ramp closures as needed. For safety, bicyclists will follow a signed detour route along local roads, until construction is complete.
Construction is scheduled to continue throughout the summer, and is scheduled for completion in fall 2019.
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