Broadway Bridge painting project

Workers erect scaffolding at the west end of the bridge.

Field work has been completed on the Broadway Bridge repainting project that began in June 2015. All traffic lanes and sidewalks have reopened. The project repainted the truss structures above the traffic lanes and handrails on three spans: two at the west end and one at the east end.  The center spans and the substructure of the entire bridge were repainted in 2004 – 2005. 

Old peeling paint and rust on the Broadway Bridge.
Old peeling paint and rust on the Broadway Bridge.
Two of the four lanes on the bridge were closed during the work.  

F.D. Thomas of Central Point, Oregon, was the general contractor for the $6.9 million project. 

The contractor removed failed paint from the three spans and applied a new three-coat paint system (featuring the same Broadway Red as the rest of the bridge).  After scaffolding was installed, painting took place within containment structures designed to prevent the release of contaminants.  Some steel repairs were required where corrosion occurred. Most work took place during the day on weekdays. 

Scaffolding has narrowed the two bridge sidewalks.
Scaffolding has narrowed the two bridge sidewalks.
Traffic Impacts

The two center lanes were open to traffic when the bridge was open, with one lane in each direction. With the two outside lanes closed during most of the project, bridge users experienced some delays, especially at peak commute hours. Sidewalk users also experienced delays at the narrow sections where scaffolding was erected. When a sidewalk was closed, signs directed sidewalk users where to cross to the open sidewalk. 

Containment over traffic lanes. Two traffic lanes are open.
Noise

The contractor worked on some nights, usually to set up a new work area. The project took several steps to mitigate construction noise and maintain neighborhood livability during construction:

  • All equipment complied with US Environmental Protection Agency noise standards, including mufflers. 
  • Reduced truck movements at night.
  • Used silent “smart alarms” instead of standard reverse signal beep alarms on vehicles at night.
  • Used portable noise meters onsite to measure noise levels.
  • The containment structures helped contain construction noise.
  • Maintained a 24-hour telephone response line for noise complaints (503-329-5490).  The contractor assisted the County to address complaints within 24 hours or before the next scheduled night work.

For More Information

For more information visit /bridges or email broadwaypaint@multco.us. 

Aerial photo shows the three Broadway Bridge spans that will be repainted in 2015 - 2016.