About
This project will replace the 90-year-old Scottsburg Bridge on a nearby alignment, providing a wider roadway and adjusting the curves on both ends of the bridge to better accommodate modern traffic.
Location
OR 38
|
Oregon 38 Bridge over Umpqua River in Scottsburg
Cost and Funding
Total funding: $42,848,000. This includes:
- Preliminary Engineering ($2,718,000)
- Right of Way ($1,380,000)
- Utility Relocation ($50,000)
- Construction ($38,700,000)
Contractor
Hamilton Construction (Springfield, Oregon)
What Problem Will This Improve?
Oregon 38 (Umpqua Highway) is a vital route between Interstate 5, the southern Oregon coast, and the Port of Coos Bay. Although many other bridges along Oregon 38 have been replaced, the Scottsburg Bridge remains largely unchanged since it was built. Opened in 1929, during an era when most vehicles were small and speeds low, the bridge’s narrow lanes and tight corners at both ends are not designed for modern traffic.
What is the solution?
Over the years, ODOT has focused on maintaining the existing bridge and addressing problems as they arise.
Fully repairing the bridge would involve repainting the green steel truss and repairing any bad steel sections, repairing and repaving the deck and replacing the deck joints, replacing the concrete railing, repairing the concrete pier caps, and strengthening the bridge to better withstand earthquakes.
However, such repairs wouldn’t address the more fundamental problems with the bridge—the narrow width, sharp approach curves, and low overhead clearance.
Due to the need for so many repairs and improvements to the existing structure, ODOT concluded that the construction of a new bridge is a better long-term investment. A new bridge will better accommodate modern traffic and will be more likely to withstand a large earthquake or other natural disaster.
As a result, ODOT is designing a replacement bridge that meets modern standards. The new bridge will be constructed just downstream of the existing structure, allowing the old bridge to carry highway traffic while construction is underway. Due to the cost of maintaining two structures, the old bridge will be removed after the new one is opened.
Construction, including demolition of the old bridge, will continue for three years.
Additional Information
Open Houses: Two public open houses were held in Scottsburg for this project: January 11, 2017 (
displays) and August 20, 2019 (
displays).
Project updates: ODOT will notify the public prior to any road closures or other major traffic impacts. Visit our GovDelivery page to sign up for
e-mail updates.