FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Big Beef Bridge closes for repairs

(Port Orchard) – The Big Beef bridge on Seabeck Highway NW (between Pioneer Road and Manley Road NW) will close tomorrow (1/28) morning and remain closed through February 12^th. A routine inspection of the bridge revealed damage to the abutment on the west side of the bridge. “The combination of storm flows and tidal action created scouring and erosion at and behind the abutment,” according to Jon Brand, County Engineer. The County’s Board of Commissioners approved an emergency resolution (KC 031-2010) to allow expedited contracting to repair the bridge at their meeting Monday night.

“We recognize the challenges these emergency repairs creates for residents there,” said Brand,  “and are doing everything we can to limit the time the bridge is closed.”  Quigg Brothers, Inc. was selected to complete the required repairs “We selected Quigg Brothers for this project because of their specialized expertise and equipment and their ability to respond immediately to this high priority project,” said Brand. They will work at the direction of County staff and be supported by engineering consultants from Tetra Tech.

Central Kitsap School District is rerouting busses and informing parents and students of changes necessary because of the closure. Central Kitsap Fire & Rescue spokesperson Theresa MacLennan advised residents to consider the temporary road restrictions if emergency services are needed. “If residents are feeling ill and in need of medical assistance, do not hesitate to call immediately,” she said. “Firefighters and medical personnel are going to need additional time to reach people affected by these restrictions. The same is true of a fire emergency. Exit the home as soon as the smoke alarms sound. Don't delay in making your 9-1-1 call," said MacLennan.

Related information:

Updates are posted to the county website and the Road Report.

County website

The Road Report

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