An important bridge in the Columbia River Gorge was “severely” damaged Thursday afternoon, June 27, leading to concerns from state leaders about how to move forward with minimally invasive repairs.
A truck carrying improperly secured heavy construction equipment damaged the Hood River-White Salmon Bridge after the arm of an excavator collided with the bridge spanning the Columbia River. Initial reports show the damage to the span lifts — the movable sections that raise the bridge to allow for the passage of tall water vessels — is significant.
Those assessments were made by third-party engineering teams and the Oregon Department of Transportation. The bridge is indefinitely closed until further notice.
“I’m thankful that no one was injured, but this accident and similar ones nationwide show how our aging infrastructure is becoming an increasing hazard to public safety and a drag on our economy,” said Rep. Jeff Helfrich, R-Hood River. “My office is communicating with Governor Tina Kotek’s administration and our fellow legislators in Washington State as we assess the damage and plot a course forward.”
“Regardless, this shows we must work on transportation infrastructure next year,” he added.
The Hood River-White Salmon Bridge is a crucial part of the economy for both Oregon and Washington, and the many communities within the Columbia River Gorge. There are nearly 4 million trips across the bridge annually, with 3 million tons of wheat and barley being moved, along with significant amounts of petroleum and wood products that are brought up the river.
For those traveling in the Gorge from the Portland Metro area, the Bridge of the Gods in Cascade Locks is the nearest alternative route into Washington.
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