About
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 a need to close 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, increase safety.
This project will replace the Bear Creek (Wallowa River) Bridge.
Key project components include:
• Realign roadway and improve highway curve. Click on image below for a view of new alignment.
• Widen bridge to improve vehicle and bike safety.
• Remove issues with footings in the river.
• New structure will be built to withstand seismic activity.
Location
OR 82
|
Milepost 45.8.
Cost and Funding
Construction is estimated at $17.2 million.
Contractor
HP Civil, Inc. | Stayton, OR
Additional Information
The old Bear Creek Bridge has been removed.
View from new bridge, looking north at a remaining section of the old bridge.
Looking south to new bridge. Photo taken from remaining old section of bridge in above photo.
The new Bear Creek Bridge, photos taken Oct. 2024.
