Bridge safety reminder: Don't turn around on the Hood River bridge

Contractors are conducting annual deck welding, which requires weekday lane closures and long waiting periods for crossings. Greenwood, speaking at Monday’s meeting of the Hood River – White Salmon Bridge Authority, described at least a dozen occasions with frustrated drivers attempted “18 point turns” mid-span to avoid the bottlenecks.

“It’s a recipe for disaster,” Greenwood said. “We’re working as hard as we can with our flaggers and welders, trying to keep the environment as safe as possible.” Work began May 4 and is scheduled to conclude by 4 p.m. this Friday, May 15.

With a total width of 18 feet, nine and a half inches, the bridge is only slightly wider than the average car length, making turns not only illegal but difficult if not physically impossible.

Not to mention the port can fine violators up to $2,000 per violation … and the bridge deck is well monitored. The port has fined at least four drivers so far.

On a related note, Greenwood asks that motorists stay in their vehicles during traffic stoppages, and also reminds people not to look directly at the welding arcs.

“The port appreciates patience during this required deck welding,” he added.

UPDATED: Separately, Greenwood noted there will be night-time closures May 28-29 for bridge lift training. These are scheduled at minimal traffic loads, from 12:30-5 a.m. each morning (so, early mornings Thursday and Friday, May 28-29).

While bridge lift safety trainings will take place at night, the two-week deck welding program requires daylight in order to find and repair cracks, Greenwood notes.