A replacement for the existing 85-year old span will open in 2015. The preferred option was approved by the federal government in September 2010 to include two 12-foot travel lanes, two 6.5-foot bike lanes, as well as, two 12-foot sidewalks. That means 60% of the bridge’s width will be dedicated to bicycle and pedestrian uses; more than the entire width of the existing 31’ wide Sellwood bridge!
A Steel Deck Arch was selected as the recommended bridge type, and construction began in December 2011. The project is currently nearing the end of the “Final Design” phase, and when completed, will greatly improve east-west access.
To learn more about the new bridge, or view project news, upcoming meetings, and events, visit the project website: www.sellwoodbridge.org
Photo: Steve Morgan
