Bridge preservation resumes February 8

A new contractor will begin the final phase of critical preservation work on two of Washington’s historic bridges on Monday, Feb. 8. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) signed an agreement with Cekra, Inc. from Wilmington, N.C. to resume sandblasting and painting on the Canoe Pass and Deception Pass bridges. The multi-year project to preserve these iconic structures began in 2019. Winter weather put the work on hold.

Weather permitting, sandblasting work begins in March, and will occur 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Crews will spend several months removing old paint and adding a fresh coat, which will protect the steel from corrosion. Travelers to Deception Pass State Park should expect high noise levels both on and near the bridges. Park staff will have free earplugs available. Caretakers should consider packing ear protection for children.

The highway across the bridge and at least one walkway will remain open during construction. Nighttime work, between the hours of 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Saturdays through Thursdays, will at times require traffic to alternate through a single lane. This will give crews space to safely move equipment and materials. There are no plans for night work on Fridays and no lane closures scheduled during holiday weekends.

Parking near the highway is limited. Many of the usual parking turnouts along SR 20 are taken up by construction equipment. (WSDOT photo from 2020 work on bridge)