N. Oregon Coast Bridge Work During Travel Season: Some Traffic Delays on Astoria-Megler Bridge

Published 04/17/25 at 5:49 p.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Astoria, Oregon) – Some amount of traffic issues are coming to the famed bridge connects the Oregon coast to the Washington side. Plan ahead for intermittent single-lane closures on the Astoria-Megler Bridge from early June through September as crews work to replace key bridge supports and concrete bases. (Photo Angi D Wildt Gallery)

“We’ll be replacing some of the bridge’s support elements and concrete bases - critical components that help keep this iconic structure safe and functional,” ODOT's Mindy McCartt said. “Most of this work is happening underneath the bridge using temporary work platforms, so the visible impact above deck will be fairly limited. Still, we will need to close one lane during weekdays to safely complete the work.”

Construction is scheduled to run from June through September, with lane closures occurring periodically from Sunday nights at 7 p.m. through Friday at noon. Weekends, including the period from Friday noon to Sunday at 7 p.m., as well as major holidays, will remain free from closures to reduce travel disruption.

It does mean, however, a portion of the high-population travel season will see a little run of traffic headaches on that road between Washington and Oregon coast. ODOT said that while peak tourism months could see some delays due to lane closures, efforts have been made to minimize disruption by keeping weekends open to traffic and concentrating work primarily beneath the bridge.

See Astoria's Riverwalk Gets New Lighting, More N. Oregon Coast Roadwork -

Luckily, there are months to look ahead with this announcement, ODOT said.

Photo Angi D Wildt Gallery

The existing 12-foot-wide load restriction on the bridge will remain in place around the clock. Vehicles exceeding this width must coordinate with ODOT Permits for approval and scheduling. With 48 hours’ notice, accommodations may be possible depending on the day’s construction activities.

Historic photo of the bridge being built in the '60s

This project is part of ODOT’s ongoing commitment to maintaining and preserving the Astoria-Megler Bridge, which has stood for more than 55 years. As with any aging structure, maintenance presents unique challenges - especially when sourcing or fabricating parts that match the original design and materials.

Cost of designing the bridge work was $40,000. Cost of construction has not been determined yet.

Twists, Turns of Construction History of Astoria-Megler Bridge, Longest Oregon Coast Landmark - On July 29, 1966 the bridge to the Washington coast opened.

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Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast.

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