On Tuesday, WSDOT bridge maintenance crews will close southbound I-5 at Exit 22 for Dike Access Road just north of Woodland, to check the condition of the bridge using a chain drag test
WOODLAND – Travelers on southbound Interstate 5 in Cowlitz County should plan for a full closure of the highway.
On Tuesday, May 6, Washington State Department of Transportation bridge maintenance crews will close southbound I-5 at Exit 22 for Dike Access Road just north of Woodland, to check the condition of the bridge using a chain drag test.
During testing, crews will pull a chain across the concrete surface and listen for changes in sound. A dull or hollow sound can mean the concrete is coming apart underneath. A clear, ringing sound means it’s strong and in good condition. These inspections help make sure the bridge is safe and structurally sound.
To reduce delays, travelers will follow a short detour using the off- and on-ramps at Exit 22.
What to expect
- Tuesday, May 6: All southbound lanes of I-5 will close between mileposts 24-22 at Dike Access Road, between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m.
- Note: A second closure of southbound I-5 may be needed to give crews more time to inspect the entire bridge deck.
For everyone’s safety, travelers should slow down through the work zone, stay alert, and follow directions from the maintenance crew.
Know before you go
Get real-time travel information via the WSDOT mobile app, the real-time travel map, or by signing up for email updates and alerts.
Also read:
- Letter: I-5 Bridge – Save $billions, reduce congestion and improve safety
Camas resident Douglas Tweet argues eliminating light rail could save $2.5 billion and reduce bridge width by 31 feet. - Vancouver amends municipal code, banning pedestrians from staying on traffic islands, medians
Vancouver’s new ordinance targets people who remain on medians, not those crossing legally at crosswalks. - Washington gas prices stay high despite Iran deal as automatic tax hike looms
Washington’s gas tax rises 2% on July 1 under a new inflation-tied annual indexing mechanism. - Letter: The IBR’s concrete obscenity
Bob Ortblad argues $17.7 billion buys one extra lane for five miles — and 30 years of debt for future generations. - Opinion: Legislators demand two auxiliary lanes and challenge light rail plans for I-5 Bridge Replacement
Legislators from both states pressed IBR staff on auxiliary lanes, tolling diversion, and a $7.65 billion cost estimate with no clear path to full funding.
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