Major funding boost for earthquake ready bridge project

In a recent meeting of the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners, significant progress was made on two major infrastructure projects: the earthquake-ready Burnside Bridge and the Morrison Bridge paint project.

Megan Neal, the design phase project manager, presented an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) for design phase support services for the Burnside Bridge Project. The project aims to enhance the bridge's resilience against earthquakes, a critical undertaking given its location over a key transportation route, Interstate 5. Neal emphasized the importance of collaboration with ODOT, particularly in managing federal funds and minimizing disruptions to public travel during construction. The board unanimously approved the IGA, highlighting the ongoing partnership with ODOT as vital for the project's success.

Following this, John Henriksen, the transportation division director, sought approval for a contract amendment with Southern Road and Bridge LLC for additional repairs on the Morrison Bridge. The amendment, amounting to approximately $3.96 million, brings the total contract value to over $22 million, reflecting a 22% increase due to unforeseen structural issues discovered during the project. Henriksen detailed the extensive work required to replace degraded steel and rivets, which exceeded initial estimates. The project, funded primarily through federal sources, aims to ensure the bridge's safety and longevity.

The board also discussed a budget modification for a pilot enhanced services district in the Gateway neighborhood, requesting $400,000 for the initiative. This proposal aims to improve local services over a three-year period, with further details to be provided by staff members in future discussions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to infrastructure improvement and public safety, with collaborative efforts between various agencies and stakeholders playing a crucial role in advancing these projects.