Dark, wet days of winter call for extra care traveling through work zone

From ODOT-

The gray and drizzly days of a typical Oregon winter are upon us.



The shortest days are still ahead, and as visibility decreases and roadways and paths collect water, the Willamette River Bridge project’s safety team reminds you to be alert as you travel through our work zone.



Construction work will increase next month on Franklin Boulevard as box beams are delivered to the site. Cranes will then place the beams to create the new multi-use path viaduct on the south bank of the Willamette River parallel to Franklin Boulevard.



Work on the new viaduct and construction traffic entering the work zone just east of the Whilamut Passage Bridge create even more activity on this highly traveled road.



“Entering and exiting the work site is a major concern,” said Haily Griffith, of PCA Health and Safety Consultants. “Our crews will do all they can to avoid impacting traffic on Franklin Boulevard. We also need motorists and cyclists to slow down, pay attention to flaggers and be ready to stop briefly if needed for construction traffic.”

Path entrance near the contractor's office on a rainy day.

To stay safe on slippery roads and paths, Haily suggests you:

•  Avoid stopping along a path or roadway to watch construction work. Choose a safer location away from the immediate work area. The Knickerbocker Bridge is a wonderful viewpoint.


• If you’re driving or biking through the work zone, lower your speed and be ready to stop quickly. 


• Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert. 


• Pay close attention to flaggers and signs near the project site. 


• Like motorists, cyclists are required by law to obey construction speed limits, signs and flaggers who are there for your safety.


• Cyclists should also wear high-visibility outerwear and use front and rear bike lights.

The crossing under the Whilamut Passage Bridge on the existing south bank path has limited clearance. Please slow down, watch for hazards and alsways obey the flaggers.

We have an excellent safety record on the Willamette River Bridge project. With your help and extra attention, we can keep it that way.