Morrison Bridge contractor installs solid deck panels on lift span.

Replacement of the open steel deck grating on the lift span was completed in March 2012.

The steel grating was part of the original design of the Morrison Bridge, which opened in 1958.  An open grating was used because its weight is light enough to be lifted for drawbridge openings and strong enough to support the weight of large vehicles. 

The steel grating was replaced with fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) panels.  A similar system was installed on the Broadway Bridge in 2005.  FRP is a relatively new material that is also strong and light weight, but offers the added benefit of a solid surface. 

The $4.2 million project improves safety for bridge users because the new solid deck surface provides greater traction for motor vehicles.  Conway Construction of Ridgefield, WA was the project's general contractor.