Work on Oregon-to-Washington Coast Bridge Over: Timelapse of Astoria-Megler Project

Published 03/04/26 at 6:55 p.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Astoria, Oregon) – An Oregon coast landmark will be left alone for awhile. Spring and summer visitors will see no more delays on the Astoria-Megler Bridge.

Crews have wrapped up their recent work on the Astoria–Megler Bridge and the on-ramp connecting Oregon to Washington, finishing both the maintenance project and the removal of the old toll structure.

On February 26, workers dismantled the aging toll booth frame after inspectors flagged damage to its wooden roof, which posed a risk of collapse during severe weather. The bridge itself remained safe throughout the process; the emergency effort focused solely on the deteriorating overhead structure.

The removal went faster than expected, with the bridge reopening by 3 a.m. on February 27 - about three hours ahead of schedule. ODOT later released a timelapse showing the overnight operation.

The Astoria–Megler Bridge, which opened in 1966, originally charged $1.50 per vehicle until tolling ended in 1993. While the booths were taken down at that time, the overhead frame had remained in place until last week.

“We appreciate everyone's patience while we fixed and replaced damaged bridge bearings, which provide a resting surface between the bridge piers and the deck or driving surface,” ODOT said.

They allow the bridge to move and flex slightly due to temperature changes, traffic and other factors without causing extra stress or damage to the bridge.

Looking ahead, more safety improvements are planned for 2027. The project will replace part of the driving surface to create a smoother ride and reduce long-term maintenance needs. Plans include fixing damaged sections of the deck and installing new bridge rails that meet current standards while maintaining a similar appearance. Oregon Coast Virtual Tour: Astoria-Megler Bridge

Construction details are still being finalized, but ODOT is considering several impacts: work running from September 2027 through May 2028, up to 35 nights of full bridge closures from Sunday night through Friday morning, daytime single-lane traffic with flaggers for as many as 90 days, full weekend openings, construction noise and debris, and the use of a temporary work platform beneath the bridge.

See the Oregon Coast Highway 101 / Coast Range Traffic page.

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