A contractor for the Seattle Department of Transportation will soon begin painting the “bascule” portion of the Ballard Bridge, the middle part of the bridge that is raised for marine traffic. Work begins this month and will be completed by February 2012. The “approaches” (raised roadways at each end of the bridge) were painted last year.

Work will begin on the underside of the bridge. As work progresses to various parts of the bridge, occasional lane closures—and full closures during the night on four weekends—will be required. These traffic changes will be announced as the time approaches and the work is scheduled. During the full closures, motor vehicles may use the Fremont Bridge. Bicyclists may also use the Fremont Bridge or they may cross the ship canal at the Ballard Locks. At least one sidewalk will remain open except during the nighttime total closures. 

The bascule bridge painting is part of SDOT’s annual painting program for the city’s 20 structural steel bridges. The steel portions of the bridge are painted to protect them from corrosion and other weather deterioration. 

To sign up for project updates, visit the project Web site at http://www.seattle.gov/transportation/bridgepainting_current.htm

For more information:  George Frost, (206) 615-0786

Media contact:  Marybeth Turner, (206) 684-8540