CONSTRUCTION BEGINS NEXT WEEK ON CHANDLER BRIDGE Drivers can expect traffic delays on Oregon 241 (Coos River Highway) through the end of summer as a project to paint and repair the Chandler Bridge begins next week. The bridge, located about three miles east of downtown Coos Bay, was built in 1952 and contains a lift span to allow maritime traffic to pass along the Coos River. The paint on the bridge is peeling and much of its surface is covered in rust. This project will paint the steel truss section of the bridge, replace the lift-span tower ladders and access platforms, and upgrade the steel guardrail at each end of the bridge. Starting Monday, Feb. 9, contractors plan to set up the work zone, mobilize equipment and install construction signs. For the next few weeks, drivers should watch for intermittent daytime lane closures with flaggers and brief delays. Through most of the spring and summer, the bridge will be limited to a single lane of traffic 24/7. A temporary signal will provide traffic control. Construction will also require two weekend closures of the bridge, probably in early summer. During the closures, traffic from the Allegany area will detour along East Bay Road to U.S. 101 north of McCullough Bridge. ODOT will provide public notification before any road closures. All work is scheduled to be completed by Sept. 18. Prime contractor Abhe & Svoboda, Inc., based in Jordan, Minn., was awarded the project after a successful bid of $7,288,400. For more information, visit the project website or contact ODOT Public Information Officer Dan Latham at 541-817-5200 or [email protected].