Upper Pearl Hill Bridge replacement project construction to resume April 7

BRIDGEPORT — The Douglas County Transportation Department announced that construction will resume on the Upper Pearl Hill Bridge replacement project on April 7, necessitating a temporary closure of the structure located approximately 5 miles outside of Bridgeport.

The bridge sustained significant structural damage during the Cold Springs Canyon/Pearl Hill Fire on September 7, 2020, resulting in weight restrictions that have remained in place for over four years.

According to county officials, the replacement project aims to improve safety for motorists traveling along Pearl Hill Road and will restore access for commercial farming vehicles that have been unable to use the route since the restrictions were implemented.

The closure is expected to last through late May, with marked detour routes in place. Drivers are advised to follow posted signs and plan for additional travel time during the construction period.

The new bridge will feature two 11-foot lanes with 3-foot paved shoulders on each side, significantly improving upon the previous structure's width and safety features. Additional improvements include reconstruction of bridge approaches, new guardrails, updated signage and striping, plus installation of stormwater collection and treatment facilities.

The approximately $3 million project is funded through a grant from the Washington State Department of Transportation Local Bridge Program.

For additional information, residents can contact Riley Haug, Douglas County Capital Programs Engineer-in-Training, at 509-884-7173 or visit the county's project page online.