The historic 1913 Van Buren Bridge has entered what ODOT is calling a “new chapter.” For the moment, what’s been left behind are the old supports, and they will only remain until the summer when work in the Willamette River can resume. ODOT spokesperson Mindy McCartt said, “This pivotal moment brings us closer to building a new, modern bridge that will improve commerce and travel in and around Corvallis.”
Also, according to ODOT, the completion of two temporary bridges by their contractor, Hamilton Construction, was a significant achievement. These temporary bridges — a bridge used for construction activities and another accommodating a single lane for vehicles and freight alongside a dedicated bicycle/pedestrian lane — allowed the crew to make quick work of dismantling the old bridge.
Hamilton Construction shared this statement: “Many of our employees grew up here, and several of our managers are Oregon State University alums. The Van Buren Bridge holds significance for us. We are exceptionally proud to be part of providing the Corvallis community with a new 100-year bridge.“
They also said that recognizing the sentimental value of the old bridge, they are dedicated to preserving its significance within the community. Local groups are initiating efforts to repurpose the turning wheel and the pony truss for a community project. Benton County Historical Society received the key to turn the old bridge. Community members are exploring various avenues to commemorate its historical importance. As part of these efforts, workers are recording and documenting the bridge in the Library of Congress and creating an educational video chronicling the bridge’s history, construction, and cultural impact.
Pat Prescott from Hamilton Construction feels a mix of emotions as the old bridge 100-year-old structure is taken apart. He says it’s interesting to see how people built things over a hundred years ago. It’s impressive to think about constructing these structures using the resources and tools they had at that time. Prescott added, “We, at Hamilton Construction, have formed a strong partnership with the ODOT team on this project, and we confidently anticipate that it will become a source of pride for us upon completion.”
The next phase involves constructing a new, safer, earthquake-ready bridge. With the aim to shift traffic onto the new bridge by late spring or early summer of 2025. This will allow the removal of both temporary bridges in the summer of 2025, followed by complete site restoration and cleanup through 2026.
The Van Buren Bridge project remains what ODOT calls a collaborative effort aimed at modernizing area infrastructure. To see images of the progress to date visit Van Buren Bridge OR 34 Flickr album.
Do you have a story for The Advocate? Email editor@corvallisadvocate.com