[birding] Snag Boat Bend Bridge Closure

[Molly Monroe]

Date: January 22, 2009                                                    
Contact: Sallie Gentry, Refuge Ranger
 
Snag Boat Bend Bridge Temporarily Closed
 
Effective immediately, the bridge for the William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge Snag Boat Bend Unit will be temporarily closed to vehicular traffic due to unsafe bridge conditions.  The bridge is located about one mile south of Peoria off River Road.  Foot traffic and bicycles may access the Unit through a gate on the east side of the bridge.  Visitors are cautioned that parking along the state right-of-way and bridge access road is restricted.  Boaters may access the Unit from the Willamette River.  
 
A recent engineering inspection found that the support beams on the south side of the bridge were unstable.  The estimated replacement cost for the bridge exceeds $350,000, an unexpected expense not included in the current budget.  Cost for bridge repairs alone are over $100,000.  A reallocation of funds from other US Fish and Wildlife Service projects in the Northwest may be needed to get the repairs completed and the bridge reopened.
 
Refuge staff strive to provide quality wildlife viewing opportunities and recreation for visitors.  However, safety is our highest priority.  We appreciate your patience and support.  For more information about the closure, please contact the refuge at (541) 757-7236.  Office hours are Monday through Friday, from 8am – 4pm, excluding Federal holidays.  
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