Willamette River Bridge

Independence, OR (USA)

In 1985, this galvanized structural steel column and bracing system replaced the deteriorated pressure-treated timbers to support a 937 ft. (286 m) long bridge deck of steel beams and reinforced concrete. The galvanized coating is in superior condition on both the tube and angle sections. The average coating thickness is 6 mils (152 µm) on the tubular sections and 5.3 mils (135 µm) on the angles. Based on atmospheric corrosion rates, the Willamette River Bridge has a minimum life expectancy of 60 years. That’s at least another 43 years before first maintenance is required.