Bridge approach still growing
In response to readers’
requests, the
NEWS will
run weekly updates on the
General Mark Clark Bridge
project on Camano Island
and the SR532 corridor
project in Stanwood.
By JEREMIAH O’HAGAN Staff Reporter
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) crews continue to build the east approach road to the new Mark Clark Bridge, which is growing in elevation by three- to six-feet each day. When completed, it will reach up to 33 feet in height, which, although not as tall as the existing approach, is tall enough that drivers should be able to see some of the work taking place.
On the west side of the bridge, crews will begin removing a portion of the temporary access road. The road was built to bring in cranes and other equipment, but it has now served its purpose, and it’s important that the west approach road to the new bridge is built on the earth itself, rather than built over the top of the temporary road.
After part of the road is excavated, crews will begin work on the west approach road.
In addition to concrete deliveries for the new bridge, many trucks will continue bringing fill and rock for the new bridge approach. These vehicles need time and some extra space to safely pull in and out of the construction site. Drivers should give the trucks plenty of room and watch for traffic slowing near the bridge.
Work marches on at the intersection of 72nd Avenue NW and SR 532, near the high school.
Improvements that require lane closures — excavating drainage ponds or leveling and widening the roadway — are being completed at night.
During the day, crews are installing new traffic signals and lights, which should be in place by the beginning of May.
If weather permits, crews should be ready to pave the intersection by the end of April. Paving farther east, by Lenz Trucking and 12th Avenue, should begin mid-April.
Visit www.wsdot.wa.gov/
Northwest/Snohomish/Construction
for specific lane
closure information, or www.
wsdot.wa.gov/projects/sr532
for general project information.
