Work to move traffic to a new east-side approach at the Sellwood Bridge began Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2014, as workmen began cutting out sections of the old bridge approach guardrail to create a transition to the temporary detour bridge. The bridge closed Wednesday morning and is scheduled to re-open late Friday evening.



When this work is finished, there will be an 'S' curve joining the temporary detour bridge to the new connection with S.E. Tacoma Street.



In December, the contractor will begin demolition of the old approach. According to Multnomah County spokesman Mike Pullen, pieces of the old bridge (including the arched-opening guard rails) will be recycled.

In 2015, the new bridge spans will be put in place over the Willamette River with the bridge is scheduled to open later in the fall. For more detail on the project, click here.