Floating Past the Bridge Project

From ODOT- I am out on the Willamette River Bridge construction project a great deal, especially on the work bridge. Every time I cross the work bridge, I can’t help but look up and down the river to see if boaters are floating by. Especially with warmer weather, it is not unusual to see people fishing or boating. Later in the spring and summer, others will just float the river on their inner tube to cool off on the hot days.

If you boat or float near the Willamette River Bridge, please remember that you are in a construction zone and passing through requires more attention to be safe.

If you enter the river east of the bridge and float under the bridge, signs in the river direct you to the correct channel and where to cross under the work bridge. Keeping to the right bank, or the north side of the river, is important to pass under the work bridge at the designated safe place. It might seem like you could pass under the work bridge in other locations. However, the combination of the current, pilings in the river, and trapped or floating debris in the river create additional hazards.

For many of you, the arrival of spring means the chance to enjoy the river. We have marked a safe passage under the work bridge. Please use it and stay safe.

Signs point river users to the correct channel to safely pass under the bridge construction.