New Hood Canal Bridge pieces in place — but reopening still weeks away

Published 11:07 am Tuesday, May 19, 2009

The Associated Press

PORT GAMBLE — Pontoons, trusses, drawspan — all the major components are in place for the renovation of the Hood Canal floating bridge.

Transportation Department spokeswoman Becky Hixson said it’s now a matter of making all the connections, wiring and testing. Depending on the winds, crews should have a better idea by the end of the week when the bridge will reopen.

Officials expected a six-week closure when they shut down the bridge May 1 for the $500 million project.

The department says the 8,869-foot long bridge between the Kitsap and Olympic peninsulas is the longest floating bridge in the world over salt water.