Comment on ODOTs OR Hwy. 82 Bear Creek Bridge project via online open house

For more information, please contact Tom Strandberg, ODOT Public Information Officer at 541-663-6261, or email [email protected]

May 14, 2021

WALLOWA - The Oregon Department of Transportation is inviting interested parties to learn about the Oregon Highway 82 Bear Creek Bridge project. Check out the project details and potential traffic impacts by visiting our online open house May 17 through May 31. During this time please visit www.odotopenhouse.org and click on the OR 82 Bear Creek Bridge link.

The Bear Creek Bridge serves as the primary freight route and provides the only year-round access to Wallowa County without leaving the state. Continued deterioration in bridge conditions could result in closure or restrictions on the bridge, disrupting travel to and from the county.

The 80-year-old structure requires upgrades and repairs. The bridge is narrow. Freeze-thaw cycles have damaged concrete railings, sidewalk and other components. Erosion and debris jeopardize the bridge foundations. A proposed new bridge will increase freight mobility to support economic vitality and improve safety.

Key project components include:
• Realign roadway and improve highway curve.
• A wider bridge to improve vehicle and bike safety.
• Remove issues with footings in the river.
• New structure will withstand seismic activity.

Please take a few minutes to visit the site to review our plans, pictures and traffic impacts information, and then let us know if you have any comments. We appreciate your review and feedback. It will help us construct a better, safer project.