Construction begins on the Scottsburg Bridge replacement project in western Douglas County next week, but it may be a while before the new span takes shape.
Dan Latham of the Oregon Department of Transportation said next month prime contractor Hamilton Construction will prepare the work zone, build staging areas, and mobilize equipment. Latham said construction signs will be installed throughout the work zone and dozens of trees will be cleared.
Latham said at least one lane of Oregon 38 will remain open at all times. Highway motorists can expect intermittent single-lane closures and brief delays over the next few months. Flaggers will provide traffic control as needed.
Latham said after the trees have been cleared and the weather has improved, the contractor will begin excavation work on the north and south bank of the Umpqua River. A temporary work platform that extends into the river will also be built.
Latham said construction on the bridge itself will likely begin later in the spring. The current bridge will remain in operation until the new one is completed.
All work on the $40 million project, including the removal of the current bridge, is scheduled for completion by the end of August in 2022.
Project updates are available at www.scottsburgbridge.com.