I-5 Lift Bridges Rehabilitation

Maintaining a “well-oiled” machine requires more than just oil. It requires proper balance, precision, and alignment of all moving parts. Such equipment is currently used to raise and lower the twin lift spans of Oregon’s I-5 bridges over the Columbia River. ODOT realized that the lift mechanisms started showing signs of growing misalignment and needed evaluation. 

Modjeski and Masters' (M&M) mechanical engineers started by conducting a detailed inspection of machinery components for both the Northbound and Southbound lift spans. Next, our bridge instrumentation and testing team strategically installed strain gages; an effective measure that M&M frequently employs to help trouble-shoot and test ailing bridges. Using the latest technical and rope access methods, our knowledgeable staff performed a detailed study without stopping traffic flow, an added value appreciated by both ODOT and the users of the busy I-5 Interstate Bridges.