Bridge To Close For Assessment

It’s one of the stretches of roadway which draws numerous complaints from residents for its rough surface.

But as they say durability and a smooth ride is more than an asphalt layer deep.

To find out the true condition of the Fourth Ave Bridge (formally known as the Thunderbird Viaduct) the City will be conducting a major assessment. The bridge opened in mid-December 1929.

In order to complete a thorough assessment the bridge will be closed to traffic for the week of August 10-14.

The assessment will include material testing, including the bridge deck, sidewalk, and barrier concrete. The testing is being completed as part of a Thunderbird Viaduct revitalization project.

The Thunderbird Viaduct will be closed to traffic beginning 7:00 a.m. Monday, August 10th and will re-open by 7:00 p.m. Friday, August 14.

During the assessment the City advises motorists to utilize the 9th Avenue Bridge or 1st Avenue SW underpass.

The City will be erecting barricades as well as signage to detour motorists to the two alternative crossings during the temporary closure.

During the closure businesses which may be affected will remain open.

Any restoration work on the Fourth Avenue Bridge is not budgeted for 2020 and it is unknown what work is needed to properly rehabilitate the structure, the cost and when an necessary work may be undertaken.