Salem, OR — A long-awaited project to make Salem’s iconic Center Street Bridge earthquake-safe is finally moving forward. The bridge, which spans the Willamette River and serves as a key transportation route, will undergo extensive upgrades beginning in 2026. The project, estimated to cost nearly $300 million, is part of a broader effort to fortify critical infrastructure against seismic risks in the region.
The Center Street Bridge, originally built in the 1950s, has long been identified as vulnerable in the event of a major earthquake. The bridge’s retrofit will include a variety of structural improvements designed to enhance its stability and resilience in the face of seismic activity. Engineers and city planners have spent years refining plans to ensure the bridge can withstand the powerful forces of a significant earthquake, ensuring the safety of drivers, pedestrians, and the surrounding community.
This project marks a significant step forward in addressing the growing concern of earthquake preparedness across Oregon. With the Cascadia Subduction Zone — a fault line off the Oregon coast — posing a potential threat of a major earthquake, local leaders have prioritized seismic upgrades for aging infrastructure, particularly bridges. The Center Street Bridge, as one of the busiest spans in the city, is critical not only for daily traffic but also for emergency response routes.
Construction on the project will begin in 2026, and while it may disrupt traffic and daily commuting for residents, officials say the long-term benefits will be well worth the inconvenience. The bridge will remain operational throughout much of the construction, with detours and alternate routes provided to minimize disruptions to the public.
The $300 million price tag for the project will be covered through a combination of federal, state, and local funding, with Salem city officials working closely with state transportation agencies to secure the necessary resources. The goal is to complete the retrofit within a few years, ensuring that the bridge meets updated seismic standards before the next major earthquake strikes.
While the timeline for the project may seem distant, the move signals a crucial step in safeguarding Salem’s infrastructure and preparing for the challenges posed by natural disasters. As the project progresses, more details will be provided to keep the public informed and prepared for any temporary disruptions.
The Center Street Bridge’s seismic upgrade is expected to be a model for other infrastructure projects across Oregon, as the state continues its push to protect vital transportation networks and ensure the safety of its residents in the face of a potential earthquake.
