Port awards Bridge of the Gods studies to Parsons Transportation Group

CASCADE LOCKS — The Port of Cascade Locks has awarded a contract for project manager and owner’s engineering services for the Bridge of the Gods Seismic, Safety & Preservation Study to Parsons Transportation Group, Inc.

Bridge of the Gods, going on 100 years old, has safety issues that may need to be addressed in case of an earthquake and to preserve it from age-related deterioration.

For instance, there is a chance the earthen embankments anchoring it near Bonneville and Stevenson could liquefy in a large seismic event. Other bridge components may simply not be strong enough to withstand an earhtquake and could break or be destabilized, according to existing studies and request for proposals.

Emergency response vehicles depend on the bridge to reach Cascade Locks, North Bonneville, Stevenson, Carson and Corbett.

A big earthquake in the next few decades is not totally unlikely. Odds are better than one in three for a partial rupture of the Cascadia Subduction Zone — the 600-mile-long fault that follows the coast from British Columbia to California — in the next 50 years. Smaller, local faults in earth’s crust can also cause earthquakes.

If “the big one” ever happens, the Bridge of the Gods would be a critical link for recovering communities, but might not remain operational. Hence these studies, funded by a $6 million state grant.

Rep. Jeff Helfrich, Sen. Daniel Bonham, and the Oregon Legislature’s Joint Transportation Committee supported the $6 million appropriation by the Oregon state legislature in 2024.

The study will include thorough seismic and geotechnical analysis, as well as the development of a long-term preservation plan with early efforts directed toward safety enhancements, including lighting improvements.

The project will also evaluate potential pedestriand safety improvements on the bridge, a key crossing of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Each year, hundreds of PCT hikers traverse the bridge, which also serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures on both sides of the Columbia River in the National Scenic Area. "Improving passage for foot and bike traffic will create a much safer experience not only for PCT travelers but for all the people who live and play in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area,” said Mark Larabee, advocacy director for the Pacific Crest Trail Association.

The Oregon Legislature plans on taking up a transportation funding package in the upcoming 2025 legislative session, and the Port of Cascade Locks confirmed there is no additional ask for the Bridge of the Gods.

David McCurry, an engineer with more than 15 years of experience working on the Bridge of the Gods, will be project manager, “bringing valuable expertise in preservation and emergency management to the project,” said a press release.

“This study represents a vital step in ensuring the longevity and safety of the Bridge of the Gods,” said McCurry.

Commissioner Rob Peterson highlighted the project’s significance in the context of other regional infrastructure projects. “This funded contract is a vital step toward preserving the Bridge of the Gods as a key transportation hub and economic driver in the Columbia River Gorge ... The bridge is not only essential for commerce but also a critical crossing for Pacific Crest Trail hikers from Mexico to Canada. We welcome Parsons Transportation Group and look forward to continuing this project with David McCurry, whose expertise ensures the bridge’s longevity and safety for generations to come.”

“Better access to state and federal lands for recreation on both sides of the river would be a boon to the developing tourism economy. We are grateful that Oregon legislators see the value in this project,” said Larabee. The port is collaborating with the Pacific Crest Trail Association to “explore enhancements for pedestrian and bicycle access, ensuring safe passage for all users.”

“Our aim is to ensure the Bridge of the Gods continues to be a safe and reliable connection for generations to come,” said Jeremiah Blue, Port executive director, adding port staff will send out regular updates for the public as work and planning continue.