Salem, OR – After years of planning, the long-anticipated project to upgrade Salem’s Center Street Bridge to make it earthquake-safe is finally set to move forward. The construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, marking a significant milestone for the city’s infrastructure. The nearly $300 million project has been in the works for several years, with the latest update to the plans ensuring that the bridge will be better prepared to withstand a major seismic event.
The Center Street Bridge, a vital link for commuters in Salem, spans the Willamette River and connects the downtown area with neighborhoods to the north and south. It is one of the busiest bridges in the region, serving as a primary route for thousands of vehicles daily. Given Oregon’s vulnerability to earthquakes, particularly from the Cascadia Subduction Zone, ensuring that such an important structure remains intact in the event of a quake has become a top priority for city officials.
The project will involve a comprehensive overhaul of the bridge’s infrastructure, with specific measures designed to improve its earthquake resilience. Engineers have focused on retrofitting and reinforcing key components of the bridge, including its supports and structural elements. This will not only enhance the bridge’s ability to absorb seismic shocks but also extend its operational lifespan for years to come.
The decision to move forward with the upgrade follows extensive studies and community input. Over the years, concerns about the safety of the bridge in a major earthquake have grown, prompting calls for action from local residents, safety experts, and city leaders. Officials have assured the public that the improvements will ensure the bridge remains a reliable and safe route, even in the event of a significant earthquake.
The estimated cost of nearly $300 million reflects the scale and complexity of the project. Funding will come from a combination of state and federal sources, as well as local revenue. The project is expected to span several years, with construction set to begin in 2026. While the upgrades will cause some disruption to traffic, officials are working to minimize the impact on daily commutes and ensure that alternative routes are available.
Once completed, the upgraded Center Street Bridge will not only be safer but also serve as a model for future infrastructure projects across Oregon. As the state continues to prioritize earthquake preparedness, this project will play a key role in strengthening the region’s resilience to seismic events.
For residents of Salem, the long wait for a safer, more resilient bridge is finally nearing an end, with the promise of improved safety and security in the face of natural disasters.
