Construction Impacts
Since last summer crews have been working on replacing the bridge deck on U.S. 197 over the Columbia River, but unexpected delays have extended the project timeline.
As of September 29, weekend closures have resumed on The Dalles Bridge. Closures are Thursday nights from 8 p.m. through Monday mornings at 6 a.m., and will continue into spring of 2023. Unexpected delays like severe winter storms could extend this timeline. The bridge will be open for the weekends of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years.
When the bridge is closed, a detour will be in place through Biggs Junction (see map below). You can always check TripCheck.com for up to date information on construction, closures, and detours.
Without these closures, there is no other way for crews to complete the complex deck replacement. These continued closures ensure that the bridge won't be entirely shut down for an extended period of time.
Emergency responders like police, fire and EMS will be able to use the road on the dam for emergency access across the river.
Schedule
Contract Bid Let - Fall 2020
Construction - Spring 2021 - 2023