WSDOT updates Islanders on bridge closure details

Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) officials came to Puget Island last week to update travelers about impacts from approaching construction on the Puget Island bridge.

The contractor will begin painting the bridge in April. The starting date is yet to be determined.

"During the work, traffic will alternate through a single-lane of the highway with a 10-foot-wide travel lane," WSDOT communication officer Tamara Greenwell said in an email.

Painters will encase portions of the bridge with a containment system to protect the surrounding areas from construction activities like cleaning, painting, debris removal and cleanup.

The contractor will begin replacing the deck when the painting is done this summer.

The contractor will work at night, 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., Sunday through Thursday. During that time, the bridge will be completely closed to traffic. However, the county ferry Oscar B. will run free of charge during the closures to provide access to the Island.

All lanes of the bridge will be open during daytime and holidays including Bald Eagle Days and the Puget Island Garage and Yard Sale, Greenwell said.