Hood Canal bridge closed to marine traffic

By Associated Press

Summary

The Washington Department of Transportation says a mechanical problem has closed the Hood Canal floating bridge to marine traffic.

Story Published: Sep 15, 2009 at 11:29 AM PST

Story Updated: Sep 15, 2009 at 11:29 AM PST

Hood Canal bridge closed to marine traffic
SHINE, Wash. (AP) - The Washington Department of Transportation says a mechanical problem has closed the Hood Canal floating bridge to marine traffic.

The newly upgraded bridge remains open for vehicle traffic.

Department engineer Jeff Cook says that during a routine opening of the bridge Monday afternoon, the draw span moved back into the closed position quicker than it should have, causing some superficial damage. He says the bridge will be closed to marine traffic until it's known why the draw span's motors accelerated.

Major upgrades on the bridge were completed in June, but crews are scheduled to work until the end of the year to finish some electrical, hydraulic and mechanical improvements.

Viewer Poll

Facing a $2.6 billion deficit, some lawmakers want to roll back I-960 to make it easier to raise taxes. Should lawmakers:

  • Override I-960 and allow a simple majority to raise taxes
  • Keep I-960 and require a 2/3’s vote for tax increases