S. Yamhill River Bridge replacement project to begin with vegetation removal

Nov. 10, 2020                                            For more information: Lou Torres, 503-986-2880

11-188-R2                                                                  louis.c.torres@odot.state.or.us

Project is located on Three Mile Lane in McMinnville

MCMINNVILLE—The replacement of the South Yamhill River Bridge in south McMinnville will begin with the removal of vegetation starting sometime in mid to late November. The project replaces the bridge located on Three Mile Lane and is a major route connecting OR 18 to the city of McMinnville.

For several weeks, travelers may notice a contractor working for the Oregon Department of Transportation removing vegetation in and around the bridge including trees in the construction area, and in an area west of the bridge where a temporary detour bridge will be built. The detour bridge will be built first and will carry the over 16,000 vehicles that travel daily along Three Mile Lane while the existing bridge is removed and the new one constructed.

The bridge is still being designed with construction of the detour bridge expected to start late in 2021. The vegetation needs to be removed now to meet the critical nesting period for migratory birds protected by federal law, and to allow for potential bidders to visit the site and see the topography, which will help them provide accurate bids. The area will be replanted with trees and shrubs when the bridge project is complete.

The new bridge will cost $38 million to construct and will be 13 feet wider than the existing bridge that was built in 1951 and is in poor condition. The new bridge will better accommodate large trucks, bicyclhttps://www.oregon.gov/odot/projects/pages/project-details.aspx?project=19389es and pedestrians. The three-year bridge replacement project is expected to be completed in late 2024 or early 2025.

To learn more about the project, visit https://www.oregon.gov/odot/projects/pages/project-details.aspx?project=19389

Access for pedestrians, including those with disabilities, will be available and identified through or around the work zones.

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